instrumentation

noun

in·​stru·​men·​ta·​tion ˌin(t)-strə-mən-ˈtā-shən 

-ˌmen-

1

: the arrangement or composition of music for instruments especially for a band or orchestra

2

: the use or application of instruments (as for observation, measurement, or control)

3

: instruments for a particular purpose

also : a selection or arrangement of instruments

Examples of instrumentation in a Sentence

There was a problem with the airplane's instrumentation.

Recent Examples on the Web

The six-track project showcases her deep love for R&B while also pushing the needle forward through warm harmonies, sultry instrumentation, and memorable storytelling. —Mya Abraham, VIBE.com, 7 Mar. 2025

The instrumentation and harmony of both voices merge with the ’90s feel of this anthem that is refreshed with the powerful but sweet voice of the Australian artist, who sings for the first time in Spanish. —Tere Aguilera, Billboard, 28 Feb. 2025

The Buckinghamshire Green ‘Super Cygnet’ features a bespoke Alcantara and carbon fiber interior with Vantage instrumentation and Recaro racing bucket seats. —Matthew MacConnell, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025

The futuristic concept was designed by William Towns, and incorporated extreme bodywork with an opulent interior that showcased innovative—and failure-prone—digital instrumentation, most of which has been replaced by analog panels by subsequent owners. —Raphael Orlove, Robb Report, 27 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1818, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for instrumentation

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

Kids Definition

instrumentation

noun

in·​stru·​men·​ta·​tion ˌin(t)-strə-mən-ˈtā-shən 

-ˌmen-

1

: the arrangement or composition of music for instruments

2

: instruments for a particular purpose

the instrumentation of an aircraft

Medical Definition

instrumentation

noun

in·​stru·​men·​ta·​tion ˌin(t)-strə-mən-ˈtā-shən, -ˌmen- 

: a use of or operation with instruments

especially : the use of one or more instruments in treating a patient (as in the passing of a cystoscope)