[see BASS a. 3 b and VIOL.] A stringed instrument for playing the bass part in concerted music; a violoncello.

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1590.  Shaks., Com. Err., IV. iii. 23. Went like a Base-Viole in a case of leather.

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1638.  J. Kirke, Sev. Champions, III. i. The resined stick of a base viol.

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1709.  Addison, Tatler, No. 153, ¶ 7. Your Bass-Viol, which grumbles in the Bottom of the Consort.

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1861.  Hughes, Tom Brown at Oxf., II. ii. 29. Carrying a great bass-viol bigger than himself.

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