bas·quine \(ˈ)ba|skēn\noun (-s) Etymology: French, from Middle French, from Old Spanish basquiña, from Old Portuguese vasquinha, from vasco Basque, from Latin Vasco 1.: a tightly fitting corsetlike underbodice of heavy material worn especially in the 16th century 2.: a rich outer petticoat worn by Basque and Spanish women