Definition of quarantine
- n. - A space of forty days; -- used of Lent.
- n. - Specifically, the term, originally of forty days,
during which a ship arriving in port, and suspected of being infected a
malignant contagious disease, is obliged to forbear all intercourse
with the shore; hence, such restraint or inhibition of intercourse;
also, the place where infected or prohibited vessels are stationed.
- n. - The period of forty days during which the widow had the
privilege of remaining in the mansion house of which her husband died
seized.
- v. t. - To compel to remain at a distance, or in a given
place, without intercourse, when suspected of having contagious
disease; to put under, or in, quarantine.