\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}.]
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.
         Me softer airs befit, and softer strings Of lute, or
         viol still, more apt for mournful things. --Milton.
Note: The name is now applied as a general term to designate
      instruments of the violin kind, as tenor viol, bass
      viol, etc.
2. (Naut.) A large rope sometimes used in weighing anchor.
   [Written also {voyal}, and {voyal}.] --Totten.