arco

This term is a technical musical directive used exclusively for bowed string instruments like the violin, cello, or double bass. It serves as the direct opposite of pizzicato, signaling the performer to return to using the bow after a passage of plucked notes.

Because it is a loanword from Italian, it functions as a specialized adverb in English musical notation. It is rarely used in general conversation outside of orchestral or chamber music contexts and is typically seen as a written instruction on a musical score rather than a spoken word.