The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Institute \In"sti*tute\ ([i^]n"st[i^]*t[=u]t), v. t. [imp. & p.
   p. Instituted ([i^]n"st[i^]*t[=u]`t[e^]d); p. pr. & vb. n.
   Instituting.]
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   1. To set up; to establish; to ordain; as, to institute laws,
      rules, etc.
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   2. To originate and establish; to found; to organize; as, to
      institute a court, or a society.
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            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. ).
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   3. To nominate; to appoint. [Obs.]
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            We institute your Grace
            To be our regent in these parts of France. --Shak.
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   4. To begin; to commence; to set on foot; as, to institute an
      inquiry; to institute a suit.
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            And haply institute
            A course of learning and ingenious studies. --Shak.
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   5. To ground or establish in principles and rudiments; to
      educate; to instruct. [Obs.]
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            If children were early instituted, knowledge would
            insensibly insinuate itself.          --Dr. H. More.
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   6. (Eccl. Law) To invest with the spiritual charge of a
      benefice, or the care of souls. --Blackstone.

   Syn: To originate; begin; commence; establish; found; erect;
        organize; appoint; ordain.
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