from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Hornpipe \Horn"pipe`\, n. (Mus.)
(a) An instrument of music formerly popular in Wales,
consisting of a wooden pipe, with holes at intervals. It
was so called because the bell at the open end was
sometimes made of horn.
(b) A lively tune played on a hornpipe, for dancing; a tune
adapted for such playing.
[1913 Webster]
Many a hornpipe he tuned to his Phyllis. --Sir W.
Raleigh.
(c) A dance performed, usually by one person, to such a tune,
and popular among sailors.
[1913 Webster]