double bass

noun

: the largest and lowest-pitched of the stringed instruments that is tuned in fourths

double bassist

ˌdə-bəl-ˈbā-sist 

noun

Illustration of double bass

Examples of double bass in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Influenced by both the violin and viol families, the double bass (also known as the upright or string bass) evolved in response to a desire for deeper, more powerful sounds. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 8 July 2026

In our house, our son has gone from playing clarinet to playing guitars and now a double bass. — New Atlas, 6 June 2026

The 750-seat Moody supplied an apt balance of sonic presence and spaciousness, although in a hall with such strong bass response the double basses could have used lighter touches. — Scott Cantrell, Dallas Morning News, 18 Feb. 2026

Sach also does impressive work on the double bass, as does Boz Martin-Jones as drummer Paul Motian. — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 13 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1728, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for double bass

• fiberglass
• fibreglass
• hourglass
• isinglass
• lemongrass
• martinmas
• orchardgrass
• overpass
• plexiglas
• plexiglass
• sassafras
• superclass

Kids Definition

double bass

noun

: the largest instrument of the violin family