Definitions

1. noun

a device, typically a metal strip or a thin piece of metal, attached to a stringed instrument, such as a violin or a cello, to dampen its sound and produce a muffled effect

“The musician used a sordino to create a haunting atmosphere in the concert piece.”

2. noun

a type of violin or cello mute

“The cellist carefully placed the sordino on the instrument to achieve the desired sound.”