4. (Math.) The quotient of two vectors, or of two directed right lines
in space, considered as depending on four geometrical elements, and as
expressible by an algebraic symbol of quadrinomial form.
The science or calculus of quaternions is a new mathematical method, in
which the conception of a quaternion is unfolded and symbolically
expressed, and is applied to various classes of algebraical,
geometrical, and physical questions, so as to discover theorems, and to
arrive at the solution of problems. Sir W. R. Hamilton.
Qua*ter"ni*on, v. t. To divide into quaternions, files, or companies.
Milton.
Qua*ter"ni*ty (?), n. [LL. quaternitas, fr. L. quaterni four each: cf.
F. quaternitÈ.] 1. The number four. [Obs.] Sir T. Browne.
2. The union of four in one, as of four persons; -- analogous to the
theological term trinity.
Qua"ter*on (?), n. See 2d Quarteron.
Qua*torz"ain (?), n. [See Quatorze.] A poem of fourteen lines; a
sonnet. R. H. Stoddard.
Qua*torze" (?), n. [F. quatorze fourteen, L. quattuordecim. See
Fourteen.] The four aces, kings, queens, knaves, or tens, in the game
of piquet; -- so called because quatorze counts as fourteen points.
Quat"rain (?), n. [F., fr. quatre four, L. quattuor, quatuor. See
Four.] (Pros.) A stanza of four lines rhyming alternately. Dryden.