Definition of: instance

(in′stəns) noun
1. Something offered or occurring as an exemplification.
2. A case.
3. Illustration, evidence, or proof: an instance of her forthrightness.
4. Archaic Urgency.
5. The act of asking, soliciting, suggesting or urging: They took action at the instance of aroused taxpayers.
6. Obs. An impelling motive.
7. A step in proceeding: in the first instance.
8. Law The institution of a process or suit.
—for instance For example.
—v.t. ·stanced, ·stanc·ing
1. To refer to as illustration or example.
2. Rare To manifest or show.
3. Rare To cite an instance, or as an instance. [<OF <L instantia a standing near, urgent supplication <instans, -antis standing. See INSTANT.]