sb. (and a.). Obs. Forms: 6 quadron, 6–7 quadrain, 7 quadran, -ren, quadern. [Alteration of QUADRANT sb.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, Theal. Gt. Brit., xxxvii. (1614), 73/1. In a long Quadren-wise the wals doe incompasse the citie.
