▪ I. † ˈquadran, n. (and a.) Obs.
Forms: 6 quadron, 6–7 quadrain, 7 quadran, -ren, quadern.
[Alteration of quadrant n.2, with dropping of the -t and assimilation to other endings.]
1. A square.
| 1591 Harington Orl. Fur. vi. lxxi, These ornaments..All are enrich't with stones of great estate,..In parted quadrons. 1595 B. Barnes Spir. Sonn. lxxxiii, Bright soldiours muster up..Raungde into quadraines and triumphant rings. 1648 Gage West Ind. xii. (1655) 51 In the midst of this Quadern stood a mount of earth and stone square likewise. 1653 R. Sanders Physiogn. 153, I erected this Figure, and thereupon made certain Quadrains and Resolutions, that my Friends might understand the significations of the said Figure. |
2. attrib. or adj. Square.
| 1598 Sylvester Du Bartas ii. i. iv. Handie-Crafts 206 Sixteen fair Trees..Whose equall front in quadran form prospected. 1611 Speed Theat. Gt. Brit. xxxvii. (1614) 73/1 In a long Quadren-wise the wals doe incompasse the citie. |
▪ II. quadran
obs. var. quadrant n.1 (sense 3), quatrain.