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quoin
(ko̵in, kwo̵in)
noun
- the external corner of a building; esp., any of the large, squared stones by which the corner of a building is marked
- a wedgelike piece of stone, etc., such as the keystone or one of the pieces of an arch
- a wedge-shaped wooden or metal block used to lock up type in a galley or form, to keep casks from rolling, etc.
Origin: var. of coin
transitive verb
- to secure with a quoin
- to furnish with quoins, or corners
See quoin in American Heritage Dictionary 4
also coign
noun- a. An exterior angle of a wall or other piece of masonry.b. Any of the stones used in forming such an angle, often being of large size and dressed or arranged so as to form a decorative contrast with the adjoining walls.
- A keystone.
- Printing A wedge-shaped block used to lock type in a chase.
- A wedge used to raise the level of a gun.
To provide, secure, or raise with a quoin or quoins.
Origin:
Origin: Variant of coin
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quoin
smooth-cut quoins
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