▪ I. † reˈbeck, n. Obs.—1
[Of obscure origin: connexion with next is doubtful, but cf. ribibe.]
A term of abuse applied to a woman.
| c 1386 Chaucer Friar's T. 275 Brother, quod he, heere woneth an old rebekke That hadde almoost as lief to lese hire nekke As for to yeue a peny of hir good. |
▪ II. † reˈbeck, n.3 Obs.—1
[f. F. rebéquer to resist or oppose saucily.]
Resistance.
| 1609 [Bp. W. Barlow] Answ. Nameless Cath. 199 Generous mindes yeeld where they find a relenting passage; rebecke by opposition prouokes to wrath. |
▪ III. † reˈbeck, v. Obs.—1
[f. re- back + beck v. 2.]
trans. To beckon back, to recall, reclaim.
| 1607 Heywood Wom. Killed w. Kindn. Wks. 1874 II. 99 Now she hath seis'd the Fowle, and 'gins to plume her, Rebecke her not; rather stand still and checke her. |
▪ IV. rebeck
var. rebec.