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noun Uncommon

quadrant

KWOD-ruhnt

Quadrant (noun) means one of four sections created when an area is divided by two perpendicular lines. Example: “The graph plots data across all four quadrants.”

noun
1
One of four sections created when an area is divided by two perpendicular lines.
"The graph plots data across all four quadrants."
2
A quarter of a circle, forming a 90-degree sector.
"Cut the pie into quadrants for four equal slices."
3
A historic instrument with a 90-degree graduated scale, used to measure angles such as a star's altitude.
"Sailors once used a quadrant to work out their ship's latitude."

How to Use Quadrant

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA quarter section of something — a circle, a graph, or a measuring tool based on a 90-degree arc.

Common pairings
upper quadrant the first quadrant a navigational quadrant

Word Forms

quadrants plural, quadrants plural

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Test yourself on “quadrant” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The graph plots data across all four _____.

Etymology

From Latin quadrans, "a quarter part," through Old French — the same root family as "quarter" and "quart."

Origin: Latin

quarter-circle

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “quadrant” mean?

The word “quadrant” means one of four sections created when an area is divided by two perpendicular lines. In plain terms, a quarter section of something — a circle, a graph, or a measuring tool based on a 90-degree arc.

How do you pronounce “quadrant”?

“Quadrant” is pronounced KWOD-ruhnt (/ˈkwɑ.dɹənt/ in IPA).

How do you use “quadrant” in a sentence?

Here is “quadrant” used in a sentence: “The graph plots data across all four quadrants.”

What part of speech is “quadrant”?

“Quadrant” is a noun.

Where does the word “quadrant” come from?

The word “quadrant” comes from Latin. From Latin quadrans, "a quarter part," through Old French — the same root family as "quarter" and "quart.".

Is “quadrant” a common word?

“Quadrant” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “quadrant” have?

“Quadrant” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: one of four sections created when an area is divided by two perpendicular lines.

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