English

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Etymology

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Because it affects the "quarters" (limbs) of cattle.

Noun

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quarter-ill (uncountable)

  1. blackleg (cattle disease)
    • 1881, Walter Gregor, Notes on the Folk-lore of the North-east of Scotland, page 186:
      When the quarter-ill made its appearance the "muckle wheel" was set in motion, and turned till fire was produced. From this virgin flame fires were kindled in the byres