Rizzio

American  

[rit-see-oh, reet-, reet-tsyaw] / ˈrɪt siˌoʊ, ˈrit-, ˈrit tsyɔ /

noun

1. David 1533?–66, Italian musician: private foreign secretary to Mary, Queen of Scots 1564–66.

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Rizzio British  

/ ˈrɪtsɪəʊ /

noun

1. David . ?1533–66, Italian musician and courtier who became the secretary and favourite of Mary, Queen of Scots. He was murdered at the instigation of a group of nobles, including Mary's husband, Darnley

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Example Sentences

As political walls close in around her she finds comfort and support in her loyal coterie of handmaidens and lone male confidant Rizzio, whose homosexuality Mary embraces even when he betrays her trust.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 30, 2018

Rizzio, clinging to the Queen’s dress, piteously cried: “Save my life, Madam! Save my life, for God’s dear sake!”

From Slate • Mar. 27, 2018

Mr. Rizzio, who has since returned to his position, declined to be interviewed.

From New York Times • Sep. 23, 2015

In the Canongate kirkyard, perhaps one of the most beautiful urban resting places in Scotland, lie the remains of David Rizzio who loved a queen once then paid for it with his life.

From The Guardian • Jul. 30, 2011

There lodged there also her Majesty’s Secretary, David Rizzio, a Piedmontese, and a man of great experience, and well versed in affairs of state.

From Life of Mary Queen of Scots, Volume I (of 2) by Bell, Henry Glassford