bass staff

noun

: a musical staff carrying the bass clef

… most of the notes in the instrument's lower range are written in the bass staff.

—John Goldsby, The Jazz Bass Book, 2002

compare treble staff

Word History

First Known Use

1770, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Kids Definition

bass staff

noun

: the musical staff carrying the bass clef