What does "col legno" literally translate to in English?

The term "col legno" literally translates to "with the wood" in English. This phrase is used in musical notation to instruct string players to strike the strings of their instrument with the wooden part of the bow rather than the horsehair. This technique produces a distinctive, percussive sound that can add a unique texture to a musical piece. Understanding this term allows musicians to interpret the composer's intentions regarding the sound qualities and effects they are expected to produce, highlighting the expressive possibilities within string performance.