What does reb mean?
Reb is an American nickname for a Confederate soldier, especially one who fought during the Civil War. It derives from the shortened form of “rebel” and appeared in such expressions as “Johnny Reb,” often used by Northerners to refer to Southern troops. The nickname later remained prominent in Southern regional culture and in the names of athletic teams associated with the former Confederacy, most notably the Ole Miss Rebs. Its meaning and tone depend heavily on context: it may be used in historical storytelling, regional celebration, or sports, but references to slavery and secession can also give it an offensive edge. Reb is therefore more than a casual abbreviation for rebel; it carries a specifically American historical association with the Confederacy and its wartime legacy.
nounA nickname for a Confederate soldier, especially during the American Civil War. It is also used as a regional or sporting nickname associated with the former Confederacy.
- A Confederate soldier or, by extension, a supporter of the Confederacy, especially during the American Civil War.
- A regional or athletic nickname associated with the former American Confederacy.
"The story of the battle was passed from one Reb to another."
"Local folklore tells of a Reb who crossed the river before dawn."
"The Ole Miss Rebs returned to campus with a decisive victory."
Often occurs as part of the name “Ole Miss Rebs” and may appear with a capital R in historical or sporting contexts.
"The Rebs wore their traditional colors for the final game."
Johnny Reb was the nickname Union soldiers gave their Confederate enemies—and it became a durable piece of American history.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reb come from?
Reb is an American shortening of “rebel,” used for supporters and soldiers of the Confederacy during the nineteenth century. The nickname became especially familiar through the expression “Johnny Reb.” The abbreviated form survived beyond the Civil War in Southern culture and was later adopted by American collegiate sports teams.
How reb is actually used
The term is chiefly American and historical. Depending on context, it may be regional or nostalgic, while Confederate associations can also make it offensive when used disparagingly.
Easily confused with reb
A reb is associated with the American Confederacy, whereas a rib is a curved bone or a metal arch supporting a ship.