Quill Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
ðïļ
quill
[kwÉŠl ]
Definitions
writing instrument
A quill is a pen made from a bird's feather, typically a large flight feather. Quills were used for writing before the invention of the metal nib. They were popular in the medieval ages and were the primary writing instrument for scribes and scholars.
Synonyms
feather pen, plume.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| quill |
Same as the first 'quill', typically referring to the same writing tool made from a large bird's feather.
|
| feather pen |
Used to describe a writing instrument made from a bird's feather, often in a more general sense. It can be used in both historical and artistic contexts.
|
| plume |
Often used to describe a large, ornamental feather, particularly one used for decoration or displayed as a symbol of rank or elegance. Less commonly, it can also refer to a writing instrument in a poetic or nostalgic sense.
|
Examples of usage
- She dipped the quill into the inkwell before writing a letter.
- The scribe carefully trimmed the quill to ensure smooth writing.
porcupine's spine
In some regions, a quill refers to a spine or a spike, especially that of a porcupine. These quills are known for their sharpness and were used as tools or weapons by indigenous tribes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| quill |
Repetition of this word implies a possible typographical error in the list. Context similar to the first 'quill' entry.
|
| spine |
Typically used to describe the backbone of an animal or the pointed parts of some plants like cacti. Can also refer to figurative courage.
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| spike |
Often used to describe a sharp, pointed object or part of something, can also refer to a sudden increase.
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Examples of usage
- The porcupine raised its quills in defense.
- The indigenous people crafted arrows using porcupine quills.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- Quills were widely used from the 6th century until the 19th century before modern pens were invented.
- During the Renaissance, quills became the standard writing tool for scholars and authors.
- Significant documents like the United States Declaration of Independence were penned with quills.
Art
- Quills were often used not just for writing but also for detailing illustrations in manuscripts.
- Artists would create intricate designs using quills dipped in ink, showcasing fine craftsmanship.
- Calligraphy and decorative writing styles flourished using quills, leading to beautiful handwritten works.
Science
- The structure of a quill allows for the perfect flow of ink, demonstrating nature's engineering.
- Feathers have a unique ability to hold moisture, which helped when dipping in ink.
- The anatomy of a quill shows how lightweight materials can serve practical functions.
Pop Culture
- In movies and literature, quills often symbolize knowledge, learning, and the scholarly world.
- Characters like Sherlock Holmes often use quills to write notes or drafts, adding to their intellect portrayal.
- Fantasy stories frequently feature magical quills that can write without being held or create scripts by themselves.
Origin of 'quill'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'cweal', which references the hollow shaft of a feather.
- In Latin, 'penna' means feather, which is the root of many words relating to writing instruments.
- The spelling and pronunciation have changed over centuries, reflecting the evolution of writing techniques.
The word 'quill' originated from Middle English 'quille' or 'quylle,' which came from Old French 'quille' meaning 'shaft, stick.' The use of quills as writing instruments dates back to ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Greeks. The popularity of quills declined with the invention of the metal nib pen in the 19th century.
See also: quills.