1. n.1 a an instrument of the violin family, larger than the violin and of lower pitch. b a viola-player.
2 a viol.
Phrases and idioms:
viola da braccio a viol corresponding to the modern viola. viola da gamba a viol held between the player's legs, esp. one corresponding to the modern cello. viola d'amore a sweet-toned tenor viol.
Etymology: It. & Sp., prob. f. Prov.: see VIOL 2. n.1 any plant of the genus Viola, including the pansy and violet.
2 a cultivated hybrid of this genus.
Etymology: L, violet