XEBEC

Etymology

Noun

xebec (plural xebecs)

A small two-masted, and later three-masted, Mediterranean transport ship with an overhanging bow and stern. [from mid 18th c.]

Source: Wiktionary

Xe"bec, n. Etym: [Sp. jabegue, formerly spelt xabeque, or Pg. xabeco; both from Turk. sumbeki a kind of Asiatic ship; cf. Per. sumbuk, Ar. sumb a small ship.] (Naut.)

Definition: A small three-masted vessel, with projecting bow stern and convex decks, used in the Mediterranean for transporting merchandise, etc. It carries large square sails, or both. Xebecs were formerly armed and used by corsairs.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition