Quoin: meaning, definitions and examples

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quoin

 

[ kwɔɪn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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

angle, corner, cornerstone

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.
Context #2 | Noun

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

block, support, wedge

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

Translations of the word "quoin" in other languages:

🇵🇹 quoin

🇮🇳 कोन

🇩🇪 Ecke

🇮🇩 sudut

🇺🇦 кут

🇵🇱 kąt

🇯🇵 

🇫🇷 coin

🇪🇸 esquina

🇹🇷 köşe

🇰🇷 모서리

🇸🇦 زاوية

🇨🇿 roh

🇸🇰 roh

🇨🇳 角落

🇸🇮 kot

🇮🇸 horn

🇰🇿 бұрыш

🇬🇪 კუთხე

🇦🇿 bucaq

🇲🇽 esquina

Word origin

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.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,506, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.