THEORBO

Etymology

Noun

theorbo (plural theorbos or theorboes)

(musical instruments) A baroque, double-necked lute having an extra set of open bass strings.

Synonyms

• chitarrone

Source: Wiktionary

The*or"bo, n. Etym: [F. théorbe, téorbe, formerly tuorbe, tiorbe, It. tiorba.] (Mus.)

Definition: An instrument made like large lute, but having two necks, with two sets of pegs, the lower set holding the strings governed by frets, while to the upper set were attached the long bass strings used as open notes.

Note: A larger form of theorbo was also called the archlute, and was used chiefly, if not only, as an accompaniment to the voice. Both have long fallen into disuse.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition