viol

/'vaiəl/

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Sure! Let's break down the word "viol" in a simple way.

Definition:

The word "viol" is a noun that refers to a type of musical instrument. It belongs to a family of string instruments that are played with a bow, like the violin but are older and usually have a different shape and number of strings.

Usage Instructions:

• The word "viol" is used when talking about music, especially classical music.
• You can use it in sentences when discussing different types of string instruments or music history.

Example:

• "The musician played a beautiful piece on the viol, which is quite different from the modern violin."

Advanced Usage:

In advanced discussions about music, you might mention specific types of viols, such as: - Tenor viol: A larger viol that plays lower notes. - Bass viol: The largest type of viol, similar to the bass guitar.

Word Variants:

• Viola: A slightly larger string instrument than the violin, but not exactly the same as a viol.
• Violin: A more modern instrument that evolved from the viol.

Different Meanings:

• In modern usage, "viol" is primarily associated with historical music instruments. It doesn't have many different meanings like some other English words.

Synonyms:

• String instrument: A broader category that includes viols, violins, and cellos.
• Bowed instrument: Instruments played with a bow, including the viol.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no widely known idioms or phrasal verbs that include the word "viol." However, you might come across phrases like "play the viol" in musical contexts.

Summary:

To summarize, the word "viol" refers to an older type of string instrument similar to the violin. It’s important in discussions about classical music and historical instruments.

Academic

Noun

1. any of a family of bowed stringed instruments that preceded the violin family