Category:Rebec

Re"bec, n. Etym: [f., fr. It. ribeca, ribeba, fr. Ar. rabab a musical Instrument of a round form.]

1. (mus.)

Defn: 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.