First Known Use: 13th century
Dictionary
1quarrel
noun quar·rel \ˈkwȯr(-ə)l, ˈkwär(-ə)l\
Definition of QUARREL
: a square-headed bolt or arrow especially for a crossbow
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of QUARREL
Middle English, from Anglo-French, square block of stone, bolt, from Vulgar Latin *quadrellum, diminutive of Latin quadrum square — more at quadrate
2quarrel
noun
Definition of QUARREL
1
: a ground of dispute or complaint <have no quarrel with a different approach>
2
: a usually verbal conflict between antagonists : altercation
Origin of QUARREL
Middle English querele, from Anglo-French, from Latin querela grievance, complaint, from queri to complain
First Known Use: 14th century
Synonym Discussion of QUARREL
quarrel, wrangle, altercation, squabble mean a noisy dispute usually marked by anger. quarrel implies heated verbal contention, stressing strained or severed relations which may persist beyond the contention <a quarrel nearly destroyed the relationship>. wrangle suggests undignified and often futile disputation with a noisy insistence on differing opinions <wrangle interminably about small issues>. altercation implies fighting with words as the chief weapon, although it may also connote blows <a loud public altercation>. squabble stresses childish and unseemly dispute over petty matters, but it need not imply bitterness or anger <a brief squabble over what to do next>.
3quarrel
verb
: to argue about or disagree with something
quarreled or quarrelledquarrel·ing or quarrel·ling
Full Definition of QUARREL
intransitive verb
1
: to find fault <many people quarrel with the idea — Johns Hopkins Magazine>
2
: to contend or dispute actively <quarreled frequently with his superiors — London Calling>
— quar·rel·er or quar·rel·ler noun
See quarrel defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of QUARREL
14th century
QUARREL Defined for Kids
1quarrel
noun quar·rel \ˈkwȯr-əl\
Definition of QUARREL for Kids
1
: an angry argument or disagreement
2
: a cause of disagreement or complaint <I have no quarrel with your plan.>
2quarrel
verb
quar·reled or quar·relledquar·rel·ing or quar·rel·ling
Definition of QUARREL for Kids
1
: to argue angrily
2
: to find fault <No one quarreled with his decision.>
Learn More About QUARREL
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: quarrelousPrevious Word in the Dictionary: quarledAll Words Near: quarrel
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up quarrel? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).