Quoin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
quoin
[kwษษชn ]
Definitions
building, architecture
A quoin is a cornerstone or, in general, a solid external angle of a wall. It provides structural support and can also serve as a decorative feature, often made using a different material or highlighting the corners of a building.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The building's quoin was made of granite.
- Quoins can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a house.
- The architect designed the quoin to stand out from the rest of the brickwork.
printing, typesetting
In typesetting, a quoin is a device used to hold type in place in a printing press. It ensures that the type does not move during the printing process, allowing for clear and precise impressions.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The printer adjusted the quoin to secure the type.
- Using a quoin helped to keep the printing plates aligned.
- The old press relied on metal quoins for stability.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Architecture
- Quoins can be made from various materials, like stone or brick, to enhance both strength and aesthetics.
- Different styles of quoinsโsuch as rusticated or smoothโcan change the overall look of a building.
- Historically, quoins were often larger and more decorative in Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
Art and Craftsmanship
- In masonry, the use of quoins is a mark of skilled craftsmanship, showcasing the precision in building.
- Stylized quoins are sometimes painted or finished to create visual interest in modern buildings.
Cultural Influence
- In literature, buildings with prominent quoins can symbolize strength and permanence in a story.
- Famous architects often showcased their unique use of quoins as a signature element in their designs.
Historical Significance
- Quoins were often used in castle and fortress architecture to withstand attacks, providing stability.
- In some regions, quoins were used to display wealth, with more elaborate designs indicating higher status.
Origin of 'quoin'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'coigne' which means 'corner'.
- It originally referred to any corner or edge of a structure, emphasizing its importance in architecture.
The word 'quoin' originates from the Middle English 'coign' or 'quoyn,' which itself was derived from the Old French 'coigne,' meaning 'wedge' or 'corner.' The ultimate origin is traced back to the Latin word 'cuneus,' meaning 'wedge.' The term was historically used in architecture to refer to the external angle of a wall, often where two wall surfaces meet. Its applications expanded into other fields, like printing, where it referred to the metal blocks used to secure type. Over centuries, the use of the term has evolved but retained its essential meaning tied to construction and structure.