Breve (?), n. [It. & (in sense 2) LL. breve, fr. L. brevis short. See Brief.]

1. Mus.

A note or character of time, equivalent to two semibreves or four minims. When dotted, it is equal to three semibreves. It was formerly of a square figure (as thus: 𝅜), but is now made oval, with a line perpendicular to the staff on each of its sides; -- formerly much used for choir service.

Moore.

2. Law

Any writ or precept under seal, issued out of any court.

3. Print.

A curved mark [˘] used commonly to indicate the short quantity of a vowel.

4. Zool.

The great ant thrush of Sumatra (Pitta gigas), which has a very short tail.

 

© Webster 1913.