rebec

noun

re·​bec ˈrē-ˌbek How to pronounce rebec (audio)
ˈre-(ˌ)bek
variants or rebeck
: an ancient bowed usually 3-stringed musical instrument with a pear-shaped body and slender neck

Illustration of rebec

Illustration of rebec

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Tyler researched instruments that immigrants brought from all over the world, using the rebec, hurdy-gurdy, chitarrone, accordion and fiddle, as well as Native American flutes and drums, to evoke a sense of history. Shannon L. Bowen, The Hollywood Reporter, 7 June 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'rebec.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English rebecke, from Middle French rebec, alteration of Old French rebebe, from Old Occitan rebeb, from Arabic rabāb

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rebec was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near rebec

Cite this Entry

“Rebec.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rebec. Accessed 22 Mar. 2023.

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