Breve n.
 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.
 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.
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