Rebec

1 definition found

From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 [gcide]:

  Rebec \Re"bec\ (r[=e]"b[e^]k), n. [F., fr. It. ribeca, ribeba,
     fr. Ar. rab[=a]b a musical instrument of a round form.]
     1. (Mus.) An instrument formerly used which somewhat
        resembled the violin, having three strings, and being
        played with a bow. [Written also {rebeck}.] --Milton.
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              He turn'd his rebec to a mournful note. --Drayton.
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     2. A contemptuous term applied to an old woman. [Obs.]
        --Chaucer.
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