Instance Definition
ĭnstəns
instanced, instances, instancing
noun
instances
An example that is cited to prove or invalidate a contention or illustrate a point.
American Heritage
An example; case; illustration.
Webster's New World
A step in proceeding; occasion or case.
In the first instance.
Webster's New World
An urgent plea; persistent solicitation.
Webster's New World
A motive; cause.
Webster's New World
verb
instanced, instances, instancing
To show by means of an instance; exemplify.
Webster's New World
To use as an example; cite.
Webster's New World
idiom
for instance
- As an example; for example.
American Heritage
at the instance of
- at the suggestion or instigation of
Webster's New World
for instance
- as an example; by way of illustration
Webster's New World
Idioms, Phrasal Verbs Related to Instance
Origin of Instance
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Middle English instaunce from Old French instance request, instant and from Medieval Latin īnstantia example both from Latin presence from īnstāns īnstant- present instant
From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition
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From Middle French instance, from Latin instantia (“a being near, presence, also perseverance, earnestness, importunity, urgency”), from instans (“urgent”); see instant.
From Wiktionary
Instance Is Also Mentioned In
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