Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—Q

Quadrille

(2 syl., French) means a small square; a dance in which the persons place themselves in a square. Introduced into England in 1813 by the Duke of Devonshire. (Latin, quadrum, a square.)

Le Pantalon.
So called from the tune to which it used to be danced. L'Éte. From a country-dance called pas d'été, very fashionable in 1800; which it resembles. La poule. Derived from a country-dance produced by Julien in 1802, the second part of which began with the imitation of a cock-crow.

Trenise. The name of a dancing-master who, in 1800, invented the figure. La pastourelle. So named from its melody and accompaniment, which are similar to the vilanelles or peasants' dances.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Quadriloge
Quadrilateral
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