em quad

noun

1. a square unit of area, one em on each side.
2. a quad having such an area. Compare quad ²( def 1 ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of em quad¹

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

There are 18 units in a quad, which, unlike the em quad of foundry type, in the smaller sizes is not usually an exact square.

From Project Gutenberg

An old-time rule required an em quad after a period before beginning another sentence in the line.

From Project Gutenberg

It is desirable to end a paragraph with an em quad, if this is practicable, rather than fill the last line flush.

From Project Gutenberg

The usual indention of paragraphs in plain reading matter is an em quad at the beginning of the first line.

From Project Gutenberg