Category:Quintain

Quin"tain, n. Etym: [f. quintaine, ll. quintana; cf. W. chwintan a Kind of hymeneal game.]

Defn: an object to be tilted at; -- called also quintel. [written Also quintin.]

Note: a common form in the middle ages was an upright post, on the Top of which turned a crosspiece, having on one end a broad board, And on the other a sand bag. The endeavor was to strike the board With the lance while riding under, and get away without being hit by The sand bag. "but a quintain, a mere lifeless block." Shak.