Definition

Noun: - A category of musical instruments that are bowed string instruments, typically including the violin, viola, cello, and double bass. These instruments are characterized by their construction, playing technique, and role in orchestras and chamber music.

Usage

• The term is used to classify and discuss a specific group of orchestral string instruments that share a common design and method of sound production (using a bow).
• It is often used in musical contexts, such as instrument history, orchestration, and education.

Examples

• The violin family forms the core of the modern symphony orchestra's string section.
• In his lecture, the professor compared the instruments of the violin family to those of the viol family.
• She specializes in teaching instruments from the violin family.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used in historical discussions to contrast with other instrument families, such as the "viol family" which was prominent in Renaissance and Baroque music.
• In instrument making (lutherie), understanding the violin family is essential for crafting and repairing these instruments.

Variants and Related Words

• Violin (n): The smallest and highest-pitched instrument in the violin family.
• Viola (n): A slightly larger and lower-pitched instrument than the violin.
• Cello (n) (short for violoncello): A large, low-pitched instrument played while seated, with the instrument resting on the floor.
• Double Bass (n) (also called contrabass): The largest and lowest-pitched instrument in the violin family.
• Bowed String Instrument (n): The broader category to which the violin family belongs.

Synonyms

• Bowed Strings: A general term for instruments played with a bow, which includes the violin family.
• Orchestral Strings: Refers to the string instruments commonly found in an orchestra, predominantly from the violin family.

Related Phrases

• Member of the violin family: A phrase used to specify a particular instrument within this group.
  • The cello is a beloved member of the violin family.
• Instruments of the violin family: A synonymous phrase for the collective group.
  • The quartet was composed for instruments of the violin family.

Noun

1. (music) the family of bowed stringed instruments