1. the hollow shafts of feathers, especially large flight feathers from birds
2. writing instruments made from bird feathers, used before modern pens
Usage: historical
3. the sharp spines of a porcupine or hedgehog

Examples

• The eagle’s quills were long and sturdy.
• Medieval scribes wrote with goose quills dipped in ink.
• The porcupine raised its quills when threatened.
• She collected colorful quills from various birds.
• The museum displayed antique quills used by famous authors.
• The hedgehog’s quills provided protection from predators.
• Artists sometimes use quills for detailed ink drawings.