Definitions for: Viol

[n] any of a family of bowed stringed instruments that preceded the violin family

Webster (1913) Definition: Vi"ol, n. [F. viole; cf. Pr. viola, viula, Sp., Pg., &
It. viola, LL. vitula; of uncertain origin; perhaps from L.
vitulari to celebrate a festival, keep holiday, be joyful,
perhaps originally, to sacrifice a calf (vitulus; cf.
Veal). Cf. Fiddle, Vielle, 2d Viola, Violin.]
1. (Mus.) A stringed musical instrument formerly in use, of
the same form as the violin, but larger, and having six
strings, to be struck with a bow, and the neck furnished
with frets for stopping the strings.

Me softer airs befit, and softer strings Of lute, or
viol still, more apt for mournful things. --Milton.

Note: The name is now applied as a general term to designate
instruments of the violin kind, as tenor viol, bass
viol, etc.

2. (Naut.) A large rope sometimes used in weighing anchor.
[Written also voyal, and voyal.] --Totten.

See Also: bass viol, bowed stringed instrument, string, viola da braccio, viola da gamba, viola d'amore

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