ˈɪnstəns n. & v. --n. 1 an
example or
illustration of (just
another instance of
his lack of determination). 2 a
particular case (that's
not true in
this instance). 3
Law a
legal suit. --v.tr.
cite (a
fact, case, etc.) as an instance. øat
the instance of at the
request or
suggestion of.
court of
first instance Law a court of
primary jurisdiction.
for instance as an example. in the first (or second etc.) instance in the first (or second etc.)
place; at the first (or second etc.)
stage of a
proceeding. [ME f. OF f. L instantia (as INSTANT)]