quartern

American  

[kwawr-tern] / ˈkwɔr tərn /

noun

Chiefly British.

1. a quarter, or a fourth part, especially of certain weights and measures, as of a pound, ounce, peck, or pint.

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quartern British  

/ ˈkwɔːtən /

noun

1. a fourth part of certain weights or measures, such as a peck or a pound

2. Also called: quartern loaf. 

   1. a type of loaf 4 inches square, used esp for making sandwiches

   2. any loaf weighing 1600 g when baked

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Etymology

Origin of quartern

1250–1300; Middle English quartroun, quartron, quartern < Old French quarteron, derivative of quart fourth. See quart ¹

Example Sentences

"Now for a bite o' bread and butter," said Mother, sawing away at a quartern loaf.

From The Sailor by Snaith, J. C.

The price of the quartern loaf rose to sixpence, in place of fivepence; but the wages of labourers on the land rose by nearly 25 per cent., and the demand exceeded the supply.

From The Message by Brock, H. M. (Henry Matthew)

A paper bag containing half a quartern loaf was also given to each, and the contents rapidly disappeared.

From Mystic London: or, Phases of occult life in the metropolis by Davies, Charles Maurice

The baker’s quartern loaf is indeed cheaper in the country than at Kensington, by, probably, a penny in the loaf; which would still, however, leave a saving of 5s. upon the bushel of bread.

From Cottage Economy To Which Is Added The Poor Man's Friend by Cobbett, William

It may be stated roundly that an average quartern loaf in Great Britain is made from wheat grown in the following countries in the proportions named:— U.S.A.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 12, Slice 3 "Gordon, Lord George" to "Grasses" by Various

Related Words

• fourth
• one-fourth
• part
• portion
• term