Vitula is the root word for violin, viola, and (violon)cello.

Wikipedia identifies “vitula” as a meaning a young cow, which may be related to the original use of animal intestines for strings.

An etymology-enthusiast wrote a terrific piece about the origin of the word “cello.”  He describes “vitula” as coming from “vitulare,” which meant “to sing or to rejoice.”

We like to think of the latter meaning – a rejoicing quartet!