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viola (1)

vi·o·la [ vee ṓlə ] (plural vi·o·las)


noun 
Definition:
 
1. stringed instrument: a stringed instrument slightly larger and lower in pitch than a violin. It is held under the chin and played with a bow. The viola is tuned an octave above the cello and is the alto of the violin family.

2. music 
Same as  viola da gamba


[Late 18th century. Via Italian< Old Provençal]
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