viola da gamba

[ vee-oh-luh duh gahm-buh, -gam- ]

noun

, plural viola da gambas.

1. Also called gamba [gahm, -b, uh, gam, -]. an old musical instrument of the viol family, held on or between the knees: superseded by the modern violoncello; bass viol.
2. an organ stop of eight-foot pitch giving a stringlike tone.

viola da gamba

/ vɪˈəʊlə də ˈɡæmbə /

noun

1. the second largest and lowest member of the viol family See viol

Word History and Origins

Origin of viola da gamba¹

First recorded 1590–1600; from Italian: literally, “viol for the leg”

Word History and Origins

Origin of viola da gamba¹

C18: from Italian, literally: viol for the leg

Example Sentences

A harpsichord, a theorbo and a viola da gamba sound alongside an upright piano and an electric organ.

From New York Times

Behind her is a painting in dark umber of a viola da gamba, a stilled music that suggests or confirms the love theme of the picture.

From New York Times

This is where Jones’ viola da gamba comes in.

From Los Angeles Times

Later, the instrument he played most often in public was the viola da gamba, from which the cello is partially derived.

From Washington Post

He also began playing the viola da gamba in the New York freelance scene and, while subsequently teaching at Columbia, led the choral group Cappella Nova, which gave acclaimed performances of Renaissance repertoire.

From New York Times