voyal

2 definitions found

voyal - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Viol \Vi"ol\, 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]
     1. (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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     Note: The name is now applied as a general term to designate
           instruments of the violin kind, as tenor viol, bass
           viol, etc.
           [1913 Webster]
  
     2. (Naut.) A large rope sometimes used in weighing anchor.
        [Written also voyal, and voyal.] --Totten.
        [1913 Webster]

  Voyol \Voy"ol\, n. (Naut.)
     (a) See Viol, 2.
     (b) The block through which a messenger passes. [Written also
         viol, and voyal.]
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