double bass

noun

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

Illustration of double bass

Illustration of double bass

Examples of double bass 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 show will feature Beth Ross Buckley (flute), David Buckley (violin), Andres Martin (double bass) and Dana Burnett (piano). La Jolla Light, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Oct. 2025 Written by the Dusters and Larry Keel, the song’s vulnerable lyrics are boosted in particular by banjoist Chris Pandolfi and dobro player Andy Hall, who serve up blistering cascades of banjo and dobro, alongside bandmates Travis Book (double bass), Jeremy Garrett (fiddle) and Andy Falco (guitar). Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 22 Sep. 2025 Her quintet features beautiful vocals from Issey Chivers, Tom Harris on electric piano, Josh Vadiveloo on double bass and Miles Pilinger on drums. Joanne Shurvell, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025 Larry Gales’ double bass was sticking out the window. David Kushner, Rolling Stone, 20 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for double bass

Word History

First Known Use

1728, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of double bass was in 1728

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Cite this Entry

“Double bass.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/double%20bass. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

double bass

noun
: the largest instrument of the violin family

More from Merriam-Webster on double bass

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