quails
/kweɪlz/
VERB
1. To shrink back from fear
To become frightened, intimidated, or lose courage; to draw back or show fear when confronted with danger, difficulty, or something threatening.
1.1. Physical reaction to fear
Describes an instinctive physical response to fear, such as recoiling, trembling, flinching, or drawing back from a perceived threat.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- She quails whenever she hears the sound of thunder.
- The soldiers do not quail when danger approaches.
- He quails at the thought of entering the abandoned house.
Related Words
1.2. Losing courage or determination
Describes becoming hesitant, discouraged, or less confident when facing pressure, adversity, or an intimidating challenge.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- advances
- beards
- challenges
- confronts
- defies
- faces
Examples
- She never quails before an audience, no matter how hostile it becomes.
- He quails under the pressure of difficult responsibilities.
- Their determination does not quail in the face of adversity.
Related Words
- discouragement
- uncertainty
- hesitation
- resolve
- determination
- confidence
- perseverance
NOUN
2. Small game birds
Small, ground-dwelling game birds belonging to various species traditionally classified as quails, found in the Old World and New World.
2.1. Birds and wildlife
Refers to multiple small, plump, ground-dwelling birds known for their short wings, compact bodies, and characteristic calls.
Synonyms
- bobwhites
- partridges
Examples
- The quails scurry through the grass in search of seeds and insects.
- Several quails gather beneath the shrubs at dawn.
- Wild quails are often difficult to spot among the vegetation.
Related Words
- game birds
- pheasants
- grouse
- partridge
- wildfowl
- birds
2.2. Food and meat
Refers to the meat of quail birds prepared and served as food, commonly roasted, grilled, or braised.
Synonyms
- quail meat
Examples
- The restaurant serves roasted quails with herbs and seasonal vegetables.
- The chef prepares the quails with a rich sauce.
- Grilled quails are served as the main course.
Related Words
- game meat
- poultry
- roasted meat
- game birds
- quail eggs
NOUN
3. A prostitute
An archaic or obsolete slang term for a prostitute, based on the historical belief that quails were especially amorous birds.
3.1. Historical slang
An obsolete figurative use referring to a woman engaged in prostitution, derived from an old association between quails and sexual behavior.
Synonyms
- prostitutes
- harlots
- courtesans
Examples
- The term quails appears in some historical references as an obsolete slang expression.
Related Words
- archaic slang
- historical usage
- sexuality