Quilled - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

physical description

The term 'quilled' describes something that is equipped with quills, which are the sharp, stiff hairs or spines found on certain animals, notably porcupines. These quills serve as a defense mechanism, allowing the animal to deter potential predators. When something is described as quilled, it often pertains to the texture or the physical characteristics that resemble the pointed nature of these quills. The word can also be used metaphorically to describe anything that has a sharp or spiky appearance.

Synonyms

barbed, prickly, spiked.

Examples of usage

The quilled surface of the porcupine is an effective defense.
She wore a quilled dress that caught the light beautifully.
The artist used quilled paper to create intricate designs.
The quilled hedgehog rolled into a ball for protection.

Interesting Facts

Biology

Porcupines can have up to 30,000 quills, which are modified hairs that help protect them from predators.
When threatened, a porcupine can raise and shake its quills, causing them to become more intimidating and difficult to approach.
Unlike some other animals, porcupines do not shoot their quills; they must come into contact to get hurt by them.

Cultural References

Quills have appeared in literature as symbols of protection and defense, notably in fables showcasing clever animals.
The term 'quilled' has been used in the arts to describe textured, layered crafts that imitate the appearance of these sharp protrusions.
This word is often associated with ancient traditions, where quills were not only used for writing but also as artistic tools for decoration.

Psychology

In animal behavior studies, understanding how animals use quills can reveal insights into their defensive mechanisms and survival strategies.
The way we perceive prickly animals can evoke feelings of caution and respect, reflecting our innate instincts for survival.
Using this word can also connect to the idea of being defensive; just as animals use quills for protection, people may use emotional barriers to shield themselves.

Literature

In classic tales, the concept of quills often appears as metaphors for the thorny path of life or the difficult choices characters face.
Poets have used the imagery of quilling to evoke beauty layered with danger, much like art or emotions expressed through risks.
The quill as a writing implement symbolically represents the power of words; thus, the word 'quilled' encapsulates both art and defense.

Origin of 'quilled'

Main points about word origin

The word 'quill' comes from the Latin 'calamus', meaning reed or pen, showing its history linked to writing instruments.
In medieval times, quills were used for writing, made from feathers, which were hollow and could hold ink.
The transition from using animal quills to metal pens marked a significant change in the way people wrote.

The word 'quilled' is derived from 'quill', which comes from the Old French 'cuilla', meaning 'a feather'. This term is related to the Latin word 'penna', also meaning 'feather' or 'wing'. Historically, quills were used as writing instruments, being made from feathers, particularly from larger birds. The adaptation of the term to describe spines or needles of animals likely emerged from the similarities in appearance between feathers and the external parts of certain animals. Over time, 'quilled' has evolved to depict not only the physical characteristics of creatures but also to signify materials and designs that resemble quills, extending its usage into fashion and art.

Quilled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations