noun
violin
vie-uh-LIN/ˌvaɪəˈlɪn/
A small, high-pitched string instrument usually played with a bow.
The violin rests beside its bow.
Etymology
The name means a little viola. Its diminutive reflects the instrument's connection to the smaller medieval viola da braccio, rather than simply describing any small bowed instrument.
In context
The cello looks like a large violin. It's also made of wood and also has strings that make the sound.
More examples
- The violin carried the melody above the orchestra.
- He tuned his violin before the lesson.
- Several violins entered together.
Forms
violin · violins
violinist noun — someone who plays the violin
Similar words
- fiddle
- The same instrument under another name, especially in folk music.
- viola
- A larger, lower-pitched related instrument.