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



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