\Qual"i*ty\, n.; pl. {Qualities}. [F. qualit['e], L.
qualitas, fr. qualis how constituted, as; akin to E. which.
See {Which}.]
1. The condition of being of such and such a sort as
   distinguished from others; nature or character relatively
   considered, as of goods; character; sort; rank.

         We lived most joyful, obtaining acquaintance with
         many of the city not of the meanest quality. --Bacon

2. Special or temporary character; profession; occupation;
   assumed or asserted rank, part, or position.

         I made that inquiry in quality of an antiquary.
                                               --Gray.

3. That which makes, or helps to make, anything such as it
   is; anything belonging to a subject, or predicable of it;
   distinguishing property, characteristic, or attribute;
   peculiar power, capacity, or virtue; distinctive trait;
   as, the tones of a flute differ from those of a violin in
   quality; the great quality of a statesman.

Note: Qualities, in metaphysics, are primary or secondary.
      Primary are those essential to the existence, and even
      the conception, of the thing, as of matter or spirit
      Secondary are those not essential to such a conception.

4. An acquired trait; accomplishment; acquisition.

         He had those qualities of horsemanship, dancing, and
         fencing which accompany a good breeding.
                                               --Clarendon.

5. Superior birth or station; high rank; elevated character.
   ``Persons of quality.'' --Bacon.

{Quality binding}, a kind of worsted tape used in Scotland
   for binding carpets, and the like.

{The quality}, those of high rank or station, as
   distinguished from {the masses}, or common people; the
   nobility; the gentry.

         I shall appear at the masquerade dressed up in my
         feathers, that the quality may see how pretty they
         will look in their traveling habits.  --Addison.

Syn: Property; attribute; nature; peculiarity; character;
     sort; rank; disposition; temper.