Definition

An external angle of a wall or building, or a cornerstone. Also refers to a wedge-shaped stone used to support or level something.

Example Usage

The architect emphasized the quoins of the building with contrasting stone to highlight its classical proportions.

Origin

From Old French 'coin,' meaning 'corner' or 'angle,' derived from Latin 'cuneus' (wedge).

Fun Fact

In architecture, quoins are often made from stronger or more decorative stone than the surrounding wall, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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