quant/kwɒnt/EtymologyNickname from Middle English cwointe (“intelligent, smart, cunning”), the origin of quaint.nameA surname from Middle English.nounQuantitative analysis or research.“We believe there is a role for both qual and quant in professional services.”A quantitative analyst.“Judy Mills: Oh, and I was very excited to hear about your agency's new emphasis on hard numbers and data. Simon: Excuse me? Judy Mills: Yeah, I heard you hired a quant.”A punting pole with a broad flange near the end to prevent it from sinking into the mud; a setting pole.A vertical shaft used to drive a millstone.verbTo propel using a quant.