Pronunciation: [fˈɪdə͡lbˌak] (IPA) 
The word "fiddleback" spells like "fɪdəlbæk" in phonetic transcription. The first part of the word is pronounced as "fid" with a short "i" sound, while the second part "dle" is pronounced as "dəl" with a schwa sound. Finally, the "back" in "fiddleback" has a long "a" sound, pronounced as "beɪk". This word refers to a type of spider that has a violin-shaped mark on its body, which is why it is called a "fiddleback" spider.
Fiddleback is a term that can be used to describe various things, depending on the context. In general, fiddleback refers to a distinctive pattern or shape that resembles the back of a violin or fiddle, which is characterized by a curved, narrow, and elongated figure-eight-like shape.
One common usage of the term is in the field of woodwork or furniture. Fiddleback is often used to describe a particular type of wood grain pattern, especially in varieties like maple or mahogany. This pattern is highly sought after in the crafting of musical instruments, particularly string instruments, as it adds visual appeal and is believed to enhance the acoustic qualities of the wood.
Another application of the term is in the field of arachnology. Fiddleback may be used as a colloquial name for the brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa). This spider is named fiddleback due to the presence of a characteristic dark violin-shaped marking on its cephalothorax. While the term fiddleback is commonly used in this context, it is worth noting that the brown recluse spider is not exclusive to any specific geographic region and can be found in various parts of the world.
Overall, fiddleback can refer to a distinctive wood grain pattern or the marking of the brown recluse spider, both of which are reminiscent of the shape of a violin's back.
The term "fiddleback" is derived from the combination of two words: "fiddle" and "back".
The word "fiddle" comes from the Middle English word "fidele", which itself originated from the Old English word "fithele". Interestingly, "fidele" was borrowed from the Old High German word "fidula", which was derived from the Latin word "fides" meaning "stringed instrument". Over time, the word "fiddle" became associated specifically with a bowed string instrument, similar to a violin.
The word "back" has an Old English origin, derived from the word "bæc", which meant "the rear part of the body". It can also refer to the back or rear portion of an object.
When these words are combined, "fiddleback" refers to the back or rear portion of a violin or a similar bowed string instrument.
