quarterfoil Definition
a decorative element consisting of four lobes or leaves, used especially in Gothic architecture.
Using quarterfoil: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "quarterfoil" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The church's stained glass windows featured intricate quarterfoils.
Example
The wooden door was adorned with a carved quarterfoil design.
Phrases with quarterfoil
a decorative element consisting of three lobes or leaves
Example
The trefoil design was commonly used in medieval art and architecture.
a decorative element consisting of five lobes or leaves
Example
The cinquefoil was a popular motif in heraldry and medieval art.
an architectural element consisting of a rounded arch with four lobes or leaves
Example
The cathedral's entrance was framed by a grand quatrefoil arch.
Origins of quarterfoil
from Middle English 'quatrefoil', from Old French 'quatre', meaning 'four' + 'foil', meaning 'leaf'
Summary: quarterfoil in Brief
A 'quarterfoil' [kwaw-ter-foyl, -foil] is a decorative element consisting of four lobes or leaves, commonly used in Gothic architecture. It can be found in stained glass windows and carved designs on doors and other architectural features. Similar designs include the trefoil, consisting of three lobes, and the cinquefoil, consisting of five lobes.
