DOUBLE BASS Meaning and
Definition
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The double bass, also known as the contrabass or upright bass, is a large string instrument renowned for its deep, rich tones. It belongs to the orchestral string family and holds the title of being the largest and lowest-pitched instrument in the group.
With a height reaching up to six feet, the double bass possesses a hollow wooden body that resembles the shape of a viol with an elongated neck and four thick strings. These strings are traditionally tuned in fourths (E-A-D-G), providing the instrument with a wide tonal range that spans over three octaves.
The double bass is usually played in a standing or seated position, supported by a spike or 'endpin' that rests on the ground. The player plucks or bows the strings with their fingers or a bow made of horsehair, producing resonant and warm sounds. Typically, double bass players use the bow to perform expressive melodies and produce sustained notes, while plucking (known as pizzicato) is employed for rhythmic accompaniment or energetic solos.
Commonly used in orchestras, jazz bands, and various other ensembles, the double bass serves as a foundation for the harmonic and rhythmic structure of musical compositions. It provides a solid and prominent bass line, anchoring the sound and enhancing the overall depth and richness of the ensemble. In recent years, the double bass has also gained popularity as a featured solo instrument, where virtuosic performers demonstrate their technical prowess and melodic versatility.
Common Misspellings for DOUBLE BASS
- souble bass
- xouble bass
- couble bass
- fouble bass
- rouble bass
- eouble bass
- diuble bass
- dkuble bass
- dluble bass
- dpuble bass
- d0uble bass
- d9uble bass
- doyble bass
- dohble bass
- dojble bass
- doible bass
- do8ble bass
- do7ble bass
- douvle bass
- dounle bass
Etymology of DOUBLE BASS
The word "double bass" comes from the combination of two terms: "double" and "bass".
1. "Double": In this context, "double" means "twice the size or quantity" and is derived from the Latin word "duplus", meaning "twofold" or "double".
2. "Bass": The term "bass" is originally derived from the Latin word "bassus", which means "low" or "deeper". This word eventually made its way into English and other languages, referring to low-pitched instruments or voices.
By combining these two words, "double bass" signifies an instrument that is twice the size of a regular bass, providing deeper, low-pitched tones. The name is fitting as the double bass is significantly larger than its counterparts, such as the violin or cello, and produces the lowest tones in the orchestra.
Similar spelling words for DOUBLE BASS
- double bassoon,
- double over,
- doubles,
- double bar,
- double obelisk,
- double blind,
- double up,
- double-bass,
- double play,
- double first,
- double boiler,
- double fault,
- double bond,
- double bogey,
- double back,
- double birdie,
- double flat,
- double bed,
- double bind,
- double vision.
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