The Definition of the word Quaternion

Quaternion

A band of four soldiers. Peter was committed by Herod to the "custody of four quaternions, i.e., one quaternion for each watch" of the night (Acts 12:4). Thus every precaution was taken against his escape from prison. Two of each quaternion were in "turn stationed at the door (12:6), and to two the apostle was" chained according to Roman custom.