The word "quartering" refers to dividing into four quarters. Its spelling can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The first syllable is "kwor" /kwɔːr/ with a "kw" sound similar to "qu" in "queen". The second syllable is "ter" /tər/ with a "t" sound like in "top". Finally, the third syllable is "ing" /ɪŋ/ with an "ng" sound like in "sing". Therefore, "quartering" is pronounced as /kwɔːr.tər.ɪŋ/.
Quartering is a term with multiple definitions depending on the context in which it is used. One definition refers to the act of dividing something into four equal parts or quarters. This usage is commonly seen in mathematical or geometric contexts, such as when determining the quartering of a pie or when describing the quarters of a circle.
Another definition of quartering relates to the historical practice of billeting or lodging troops. In this context, quartering refers to the act of assigning soldiers or military personnel to live in private homes or other accommodations, typically during times of war or unrest. This practice, which was common in the past, often involved forcing citizens to provide food, shelter, and supplies to the quartered soldiers.
Additionally, quartering can also be a term used in heraldry, referring to the division of a shield or coat of arms into four equal parts, typically arranged in a square pattern. This division is often seen in the design of family crests or emblems.
In summary, quartering can refer to the act of dividing something into four equal parts, the historical practice of billeting troops, or the division of a shield in heraldry. The meaning of the term largely depends on the specific context in which it is utilized.
In arch., a series of quarters; in mil., assignment of quarters; in her., one of the divisions of a shield containing many coats.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word quartering derives from the noun quarter which originated from the Old French word quartier meaning a fourth part. The term later developed in Middle English, referring to the act of dividing something into four equal parts. Over time, quartering came to be used in different contexts, including the division of an area or a city into sections. The term also encompasses the practice of assigning soldiers to housing in civilians' homes, particularly during times of war, which became known as quartering troops.