[L., neat. sing. of quotus: see QUOTA.] A number or quantity considered in its proportional relationship to a larger number or amount of which it forms part; a quota.
a. 1660. Hammond, Wks. (1674), I. 89. The exact proportion or quotum, I cannot prescribe you, the Scripture … intimating that there is no set proportion to be defined.
1696. Bp. Patrick, Comm. Exodus xiv. (1697), 262. Observing that Seventh Day … not for the quotum of one Day in Seven … but for the designation of that day.
a. 1716. Blackall, Wks. (1723), I. 394. Not a greater Sum … than a poorer Man … may spare to give away with as little Inconvenience … as the richer Man can give away his larger quotum.
1859. Max Müller, Sc. Lang., Ser. I. (1864), 382. The number of names which are really formed by an imitation of sound dwindle down to a very small quotum if cross-examined by the comparative philologist.
1881. A. Rimmer, Old Country Towns, 172. The size of the ships that are recorded as the quotum Hythe had to furnish for fifteen days annually to the Royal Navy.
