Quill (noun)

1. A large, stiff feather used as a writing implement before the invention of the fountain pen.
2. A hollow tubular feather used as a writing implement in ancient times.

Origin:

Middle english: from old norse kvǫllr; related to middle low german quelle 'spring, well'.

Examples:

1. She wrote her letter with a quill, dipping it into the ink pot every few words.
2. The quill was a common writing implement in the days before the ballpoint pen.
3. The author used a quill to write the first draft of his novel, before typing it on a computer.
4. The poet carefully selected the right quill for his work, choosing one with a fine tip for intricate details.
5. The quill was made from the primary flight feathers of a large bird, such as a goose or a swan.