rebec Meaning, Definition & Usage

Re"bec noun

Etymology

F., fr. It. ribeca, ribeba, fr. Ar. rabab a musical instrument of a round form.

Definitions

1. (Mus.) An instrument formerly used which somewhat resembled the violin, having three strings, and being played with a bow. Written also rebeck. Milton.

   He turn'd his rebec to a mournful note. Drayton.

2. A contemptuous term applied to an old woman. Obs. Chaucer.