\Quin"tain\, n. [F. quintaine, LL. quintana; cf. W.
chwintan a kind of hymeneal game.]
An object to be tilted at; -- called also {quintel}. [Written
also {quintin}.]
Note: A common form in the Middle Ages was an upright post,
      on the top of which turned a crosspiece, having on one
      end a broad board, and on the other a sand bag. The
      endeavor was to strike the board with the lance while
      riding under, and get away without being hit by the
      sand bag. ``But a quintain, a mere lifeless block.''
      --Shak.