In·sti·tute v. t. [imp. & p. p. Instituted p. pr. & vb. n. Instituting.]
 1. To set up; to establish; to ordain; as, to institute laws, rules, etc.
 2. To originate and establish; to found; to organize; as, to institute a court, or a society.
    Whenever any from of government becomes destructive of these ends it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute a new government.   --Jefferson (Decl. of Indep. ).
 3. To nominate; to appoint. [Obs.]
 We institute your Grace
 To be our regent in these parts of France.   --Shak.
 4. To begin; to commence; to set on foot; as, to institute an inquiry; to institute a suit.
 And haply institute
 A course of learning and ingenious studies.   --Shak.
 5. To ground or establish in principles and rudiments; to educate; to instruct. [Obs.]
    If children were early instituted, knowledge would insensibly insinuate itself.   --Dr. H. More.
 6. Eccl. Law To invest with the spiritual charge of a benefice, or the care of souls.
 Syn: -- To originate; begin; commence; establish; found; erect; organize; appoint; ordain.