col arco koe-LAR-coe Your browser does not support the audio element. [ Italian , with the bow ] Definition A directive to a violin (or a bowed string instrument) musician to perform the indicated passage with the bow as opposed to being played pizzicato (plucked). Also arco. Share Share on Facebook (opens in a new tab) Share on X (opens in a new tab) Last Updated: 2016-05-21 17:48:49