Pronunciation: [kwˈɔːtəlˌa͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The word "quarterlight" is commonly used in the automobile industry to refer to the small side window in a car door. The spelling of the word is often confused, as it is not a commonly used term in everyday language. The IPA phonetic transcription of the word would be /ˈkwɔː.tər.laɪt/. The spelling comes from the fact that the window is typically a quarter of the size of the main window and allows light to enter the car.
quarterlight (noun):
1. A small, triangular-shaped window located near the front side windows of a vehicle, typically cars or trucks. The quarterlight is usually hinged and can be opened to provide additional ventilation. It is often made of clear glass and is positioned near the A-pillar, between the front driver and passenger windows. The quarterlight's primary function is to allow fresh air flow into the vehicle's interior while preventing strong gusts from directly hitting the occupants.
2. In architectural terms, quarterlight refers to a narrow window that is placed above or beside a door or larger window. This smaller window provides supplementary light to adjacent areas. Typically, quarterlights are rectangular or elongated, and often feature ornamental designs or patterns, adding aesthetic value to the overall architectural appearance.
The term "quarterlight" is derived from the fact that the small window occupies approximately one-quarter of the total front side window area in vehicles. It has been used since the early days of automobile manufacturing to enhance comfort and air circulation within the vehicle cabin. In architecture, quarterlights serve a similar purpose, offering illumination to rooms or spaces that may otherwise lack natural light.
The word "quarterlight" is derived from the combination of two separate words: "quarter" and "light".
The term "light" in this context refers to a small window or opening in a vehicle. It is an older usage of the word that specifically indicates a small window that can be opened for ventilation or for communication purposes within an automobile.
The word "quarter" refers to the particular location of the window within the vehicle. In the case of "quarterlight", it typically refers to a small triangular window found in the front doors of older cars, often just behind the main side windows. These quarterlights were commonly hinged and could be opened for extra ventilation when needed.
The origin of the term "quarterlight" can be traced back to the early 20th century, originating in the UK.
