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.