Acoustic bass – Definition & Meaning

Acoustic bass is a musical instrument that is widely used in jazz, blues, and other types of music. It is a type of stringed instrument that produces a deep and distinctive sound. In this article, we will explore the definition, meaning, and origin of the acoustic bass.

Definitions

Acoustic bass is a type of musical instrument that is similar to a guitar but has a larger body and longer neck. It is played by plucking the strings with the fingers or a pick. The acoustic bass is also known as an upright bass, double bass, or bass violin.

Origin

The acoustic bass has its roots in the violin family of instruments. The first known double bass was created in the mid-16th century in Italy. Over time, the instrument evolved and became more popular in jazz and blues music.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the acoustic bass is defined as “a large stringed instrument that is similar to a guitar but has a longer neck and a deeper, richer sound.” The Oxford English Dictionary describes it as “a large, deep-bodied stringed instrument with a fretted fingerboard, played with a bow or by plucking the strings with the fingers.”

Associations

The acoustic bass is often associated with jazz and blues music. It is also used in classical music and in some forms of folk music. The instrument is known for its deep and rich sound, which adds depth and complexity to musical compositions.

Synonyms

The acoustic bass is also known as an upright bass, double bass, or bass violin. These terms are often used interchangeably to describe the same instrument.

Antonyms

There are no direct antonyms for acoustic bass. However, other types of bass instruments include the electric bass guitar and the bass saxophone.

The same root words

The terms “acoustic” and “bass” are both derived from the Greek language. “Acoustic” comes from the Greek word “akoustikos,” which means “pertaining to hearing.” “Bass” comes from the Greek word “bassos,” which means “low.”

Example Sentences

1. The jazz band featured a talented musician on the acoustic bass.
2. The classical orchestra included several acoustic bass players.
3. The blues singer strummed the acoustic bass to add depth to the music.
4. The musician preferred the sound of the acoustic bass over the electric bass guitar.
5. The audience was mesmerized by the deep and rich sound of the acoustic bass.