(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.
