Crossword Dictionary

What's The Definition Of Viol?

\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.