QUINTAIN
Etymology
Noun
quintain (plural quintains)
(now historical) An object (generally a post or plank on a support) set up as a target to be tilted at in jousting, or otherwise used as target practice. [from 15th c.]
Source: Wiktionary
Quin"tain, n. Etym: [F. quintaine, LL. quintana; cf. W. chwintan a
kind of hymeneal game.]
Definition: An object to be tilted at; -- called also quintel. [Written
also quintin.]
Note: A common form in the Middle Ages was an upright post, on the
top of which turned a crosspiece, having on one end a broad board,
and on the other a sand bag. The endeavor was to strike the board
with the lance while riding under, and get away without being hit by
the sand bag. "But a quintain, a mere lifeless block." Shak.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition