Quall, Quell, Quail: Which Is Correct?

"Quall" is not a standardly accepted word in the English language. It is likely a misspelling of "quell" or "quail." Quall or Qualls can also be a surname, which is a last name or family name.

Some online dictionaries claim that "quall" means curd, the part of milk that coagulates when it sours or that it is the obsolete spelling of "equal." However, there is not enough evidence for either of these claims.

"Quell" is a verb that means to subdue or pacify. The term can also mean putting an end to or suppressing as in quelling a riot. You can quell, or calm down, a frightened child by telling them they will be safe in your presence.

"Quail" can either be used as a noun or verb. As a noun, "quail" is a bird that is small and short-tailed (see image below). As a verb, "quail" means to falter, give way, or cower in dread or terror. For instance, an inexperienced soldier can quail at the sound of cannons and machine guns on a battlefield.

Example sentences

Quell

The police were called in to quell the violent protests that had erupted in the city.
The mayor's speech helped quell the fears of the citizens regarding the upcoming changes.
The teacher's stern voice was enough to quell the students' chatter and restore order in the classroom.
It took the firefighters several hours to quell the raging fire and prevent it from spreading further.
The soothing music was able to quell the baby's crying and help them fall asleep.

Quail

The group of quails darted through the underbrush, their tiny forms blending with the foliage.
In some cultures, quail eggs are considered a delicacy and are often used in gourmet dishes.
The small animal quailed in fear when it spotted the predator approaching.
The actor's confidence seemed to quail as the stage lights came on and the audience's gaze fixed upon him.
The sailor's heart quailed when he saw the storm clouds gathering on the horizon.

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