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quad

quad

5 9.6
A small metal block used to make space between words or lines in printing
  • noun
  • /kwɒd/
  • Archaic
translation icon : espaciador tipográfico

Synonyms

space
vsquad
76 1.0

A blank area between words when writing or typing

is a physical metal block used to make spacing in typesetting
em quad
vsquad
  • Archaic
9.9

A square metal block used in printing to make space equal to the size of the letters

is a metal spacer not limited to that exact width
mutton quad
vsquad
  • Archaic
9.9

A square metal block used to make space in letterpress printing

is the general metal spacer not focused on square shape
quadrat
vsquad
  • Archaic
9.9

A small metal or wooden block used to make a blank space in printed text

is specifically a metal block with a flat plain face for spacing

Compounds

em quad
  • Archaic
9.9

A square metal block used in printing to make space equal to the size of the letters

mutton quad
  • Archaic
9.9

A square metal block used to make space in letterpress printing

How Wide

quad
  • Archaic
5 9.6
space
76 1.0
hair space
  • Specialized
9.9

Surface Forms

quad singular
quads plural

Etymology

Quad in printing comes from the old word quadratum, which means 'square' or 'four-sided'. A printing quad was a small square block of metal used to make space on the page, so the name links to its shape and purpose.