Wiktionary
alt. 1 A single quotation mark, ('). This is often used for a quote within a quote, as in ''"Tom said 'What?'"'' 2 A punctuation mark to indicate that the text is a semi-quote, i.e. a close paraphrase that uses some of the author's original words. 3 A phrase that is a close paraphrase that uses some of the authors original words. For instance: ''"A fanatic is someone who will not change his mind or the subject of discussion," according to Winston Churchill.'' n. 1 A single quotation mark, ('). This is often used for a quote within a quote, as in ''"Tom said 'What?'"'' 2 A punctuation mark to indicate that the text is a semi-quote, i.e. a close paraphrase that uses some of the author's original words. 3 A phrase that is a close paraphrase that uses some of the authors original words. For instance: ''"A fanatic is someone who will not change his mind or the subject of discussion," according to Winston Churchill.'' vb. 1 To make a close paraphrase of a quotation, using some of its words. 2 To modify a quote, adapting it to different circumstances but preserving the intent. "To semi-quote Shakespeare …"