cello

¹

[ chel-oh ]

noun

, plural cel·los.

1. the second largest member of the violin family, rested vertically on the floor between the performer's knees when being played.

cello

²

[ sel-oh ]

noun

, Informal.

1. cellophane.

cello

/ ˈtʃɛləʊ /

noun

1. music a bowed stringed instrument of the violin family. Range: more than four octaves upwards from C below the bass staff. It has four strings, is held between the knees, and has an extendible metal spike at the lower end, which acts as a support Full namevioloncello

cello

1. An instrument in the violin family, known for its rich tone. Among the strings , or stringed instruments, the cello has the second-lowest range, higher only than the bass viol , and it has the lowest part in string quartets . Cellists hold the instrument between their knees to play it. Cello is short for violoncello .

Derived Forms

• ˈcellist, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of cello¹

First recorded in 1875–80; short for violoncello

Origin of cello²

By shortening

Example Sentences

Classically trained in piano and cello, Fisher had also picked up the guitar as a teenager.

From Ozy

The same goes for handling a bicycle, riding a wave, growing a garden, or playing the cello.

From Outside Online

They played, respectively, a cello, djembe drum, and floor tom drum.

From Nautilus

Yo-Yo Ma started sharing cello solos he called “Songs of Comfort” during early pandemic days.

From Time

Boynton wrote, illustrated, and directed the creation of the Jungle Night video, while Ma used his cello to bring to life the sounds of snoozing jungle creatures.

From Time

Only one of each: one bass, one cello, like a string quintet.

From The Daily Beast

In full disclosure, I play the cello, and it is my favorite instrument.

From The Daily Beast

We teach them everything from how to mic their cello to how to book a gig.

From The Daily Beast

My roommate, a talented musician and mathematician, gave up the cello and took a job as an investment banker.

From The Daily Beast

The cello adds an elegant dramatic touch to a song many have found rather devoid of emotion.

From The Daily Beast

Anne-Marie lifts her right arm slowly, and strikes the low G—a long vibrating note, like the note of a 'cello.

From Project Gutenberg

It was not simply that his 'cello was his joy and pride, but he felt it to be a recognition of his return to respectability.

From Project Gutenberg

Dr. Vereker won't have a cab; he will leave the 'cello till next time, and walk.

From Project Gutenberg

If one has a few pieces (violin, cello, bass viol, flute) to play Hungarian airs during the dinner it will please the guests.

From Project Gutenberg

Short-distance travel with a 'cello is not much more agreeable.

From Project Gutenberg