Quoin: meaning, definitions and examples
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quoin
[kwɔɪn ]
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
Architecture
- Quoins can be made from various materials, like stone or brick, to enhance both strength and aesthetics.
- Different styles of quoins—such as rusticated or smooth—can 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.
Translations
Translations of the word "quoin" in other languages:
🇵🇹 quoin
- esquina
- canto
🇮🇳 कोन
- कोने
- किनारा
🇩🇪 Ecke
- Winkel
- Quader
🇮🇩 sudut
- pojok
- sisi
🇺🇦 кут
- край
- щипець
🇵🇱 kąt
- narożnik
- brzeg
🇯🇵 隅
- コーナー
- 角
🇫🇷 coin
- angle
- coin de mur
🇪🇸 esquina
- rincón
- ángulo
🇹🇷 köşe
- açı
- kenar
🇰🇷 모서리
- 구석
- 각
🇸🇦 زاوية
- ركن
- حافة
🇨🇿 roh
- nároží
- hrana
🇸🇰 roh
- kút
- hrana
🇨🇳 角落
- 角
- 边
🇸🇮 kot
- vogal
- rob
🇮🇸 horn
- hornkvísl
- hornar
🇰🇿 бұрыш
- мүйіз
- шетін
🇬🇪 კუთხე
- კუთხეში
- კიდე
🇦🇿 bucaq
- künc
- kənar
🇲🇽 esquina
- rincón
- ángulo