cello

noun

cel·​lo ˈche-(ˌ)lō How to pronounce cello (audio)
plural cellos also celli ˈche-lē How to pronounce cello (audio)
: the bass member of the violin family tuned an octave below the viola

Examples of cello in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The tack-iron and back-cello are here, but the focus of the exhibition is the rayograph. Zachary Fine, New Yorker, 23 Sep. 2025 The cast also features Lumi Pollack as cello prodigy Rosie, Casey Trotter as drummer Cliff, Brooklynn Pitts as choreographer Callie, Ava Jean as social media star Madison and Malachi Barton as the camp’s resident bad boy, Fletch. Emily Blackwood, PEOPLE, 18 Sep. 2025 The finale opens with a sneaky cello solo answered by a mischievous violin line. Sheila Regan, Twin Cities, 13 Sep. 2025 The group sang Christian religious hymns accompanied by a wailing violin, cello and an acoustic guitar. Laura Gersony, AZCentral.com, 10 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cello

Word History

Etymology

short for violoncello

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cello was in 1855

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Cite this Entry

“Cello.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cello. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

cello

noun
cel·​lo ˈchel-ō How to pronounce cello (audio)
plural cellos
: a large musical instrument of the violin family that plays the bass or tenor part
Etymology

shortened form of violoncello

More from Merriam-Webster on cello

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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