Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Rebec \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.