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 notesIn 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
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like quadrant.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- quadrants
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."
Synonyms
View more →
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.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include quadrant:
