Doc"u*ment (?), n. [LL. documentum, fr. docere to teach: cf. F. document. See Docile.]
1.
That which is taught or authoritatively set forth; precept; instruction; dogma.
[Obs.]
Learners should not be too much crowded with a heap or multitude of documents or ideas at one time.
I. Watts.
2.
An example for instruction or warning.
[Obs.]
They were forth with stoned to death, as a document to others.
Sir W. Raleigh.
3.
An original or official paper relied upon as the basis, proof, or support of anything else; -- in its most extended sense, including any writing, book, or other instrument conveying information in the case; any material substance on which the thoughts of men are represented by any species of conventional mark or symbol.
Saint Luke . . . collected them from such documents and testimonies as he . . . judged to be authentic.
Paley.
© Webster 1913.
Doc"u*ment, v. t.
1.
To teach; to school.
[Obs.]
I am finely documented by my own daughter.
Dryden.
2.
To furnish with documents or papers necessary to establish facts or give information; as, a a ship should be documented according to the directions of law.
© Webster 1913.