quill (kw l)n. 1. The hollow stemlike main shaft of a feather. Also called calamus. 2. Any of the larger wing or tail feathers of a bird. 3. A writing pen made from the shaft of a feather. 4. Music a. A plectrum for a stringed instrument of the clavichord type. b. A pipe having a hollow stem. 5. A toothpick made from the stem of a feather. 6. One of the sharp hollow spines of a porcupine or hedgehog. 7. A spindle or bobbin around which yarn is wound in weaving. 8. A hollow shaft that rotates on a solid shaft when gears are engaged. tr.v. quilled, quill·ing, quills 1. To wind (thread or yarn) onto a quill. 2. To make or press small ridges in (fabric). [Middle English quil.] |
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