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Violoncello: meaning, definitions and examples

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violoncello

[ ˌviələnˈtʃɛləʊ ]

Noun

^{Context #1 | Noun}

musical instrument

A stringed musical instrument of the violin family, larger than a violin and tuned an octave lower.

Synonyms

cello.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
violoncello	This term is more formal and is often used in classical music contexts, academic discussions, or formal writing about music. The soloist performed a challenging piece for violoncello. In the 18th century, the violoncello gained prominence in orchestras.
cello	This is the most common term used in everyday conversations and general contexts when referring to the instrument. She plays the cello beautifully. I'm taking cello lessons this summer.

Word

Description / Examples

violoncello

This term is more formal and is often used in classical music contexts, academic discussions, or formal writing about music.

The soloist performed a challenging piece for violoncello.
In the 18th century, the violoncello gained prominence in orchestras.

cello

This is the most common term used in everyday conversations and general contexts when referring to the instrument.

She plays the cello beautifully.
I'm taking cello lessons this summer.

Examples of usage

It is common to see a violoncello player in an orchestra.
She practiced playing the violoncello for hours every day.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

formal usage

A violoncello is a large stringed instrument that is played with a bow.

Synonyms

cello.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
violoncello	Similar to the first context, it can also be used in historic texts or when a formal tone is needed. The composer wrote a solo piece for the violoncello. He admired the craftsmanship of the century-old violoncello.
cello	Used in everyday language and informal settings. This is a more modern and common term. He played the cello beautifully during the concert. She practices the cello every day.

Word

Description / Examples

violoncello

Similar to the first context, it can also be used in historic texts or when a formal tone is needed.

The composer wrote a solo piece for the violoncello.
He admired the craftsmanship of the century-old violoncello.

cello

Used in everyday language and informal settings. This is a more modern and common term.

He played the cello beautifully during the concert.
She practices the cello every day.

Examples of usage

She performed a beautiful piece on the violoncello at the concert.
The violoncello section of the orchestra played a moving melody.

Translations

Translations of the word "violoncello" in other languages:

🇵🇹 violoncelo

🇮🇳 वायोलोन्सेलो

🇩🇪 Violoncello

🇮🇩 selo

🇺🇦 віолончель

🇵🇱 wiolonczela

🇯🇵 チェロ

🇫🇷 violoncelle

🇪🇸 violonchelo

🇹🇷 viyolonsel

🇰🇷 첼로

🇸🇦 تشيلو

🇨🇿 violoncello

🇸🇰 violončelo

🇨🇳 大提琴

🇸🇮 violončelo

🇮🇸 selló

🇰🇿 виолончель

🇬🇪 ვიოლონჩელო

🇦🇿 violonçel

🇲🇽 violonchelo

Etymology

The violoncello, commonly known as the cello, is a member of the violin family. It originated in the early 16th century in Italy and has since become an integral part of classical music ensembles. The instrument's name comes from the Italian 'violoncello', which means 'small violone'. The violoncello has a rich history of being used in solo performances, chamber music, and orchestral compositions, showcasing its versatility and expressive capabilities.