GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Viol , n. [F. viole; cf. Pr. viola, viula, Sp., Pg., & It. viola, LL. vitula; of uncertain origin; perhaps from L. vitulari to celebrate a festival, keep holiday, be joyful, perhaps originally, to sacrifice a calf (vitulus; cf. Veal). Cf. Fiddle, Vielle, 2d Viola, Violin.]
   1913 Webster
   (Mus.) A stringed musical instrument formerly in use, of the same form as the violin, but larger, and having six strings, to be struck with a bow, and the neck furnished with frets for stopping the strings.
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   Me softer airs befit, and softer strings
   Of lute, or viol still, more apt for mournful things.
   Milton.
   
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   ☞ The name is now applied as a general term to designate instruments of the violin kind, as tenor viol, bass viol, etc.
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   (Naut.) A large rope sometimes used in weighing anchor. [Written also voyal, and voyal.]
   Totten.
   
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2.       
   Voyol , n. (Naut.) (a) See Viol, 2. (b) The block through which a messenger passes. [Written also viol, and voyal.]
   1913 Webster