Tar`an*tel"la (?), n. [It.] Mus. (a)
A rapid and delirious sort of Neapolitan dance in 6-8 time, which moves in whirling triplets; -- so called from a popular notion of its being a remedy against the poisonous bite of the tarantula. Some derive its name from Taranto in Apulia.
(b)
Music suited to such a dance.
© Webster 1913.