\Re"bec\, 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.

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

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