four

UK: fɔː | US: fɔːr

Definition
  1. n. the number equivalent to the sum of three and one; 4

  2. adj. amounting to four in number

Structure

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Etymology

The word "four" traces back to Old English fēower, derived from Proto-Germanic fedwōr, which in turn comes from Proto-Indo-European kʷetwóres. This ancient root is shared across many Indo-European languages (e.g., Latin quattuor, Greek téssares, Sanskrit catvāraḥ). The consistent "f-" sound in Germanic languages (like German vier) contrasts with the "qu-/k-" in other branches, showcasing Grimm's Law of sound shifts. The word's stability over millennia reflects its fundamental role in counting systems.

Examples
  1. She has four cats, each with a unique personality.

  2. The meeting is scheduled for four o'clock.

  3. Divide the cake into four equal parts.

  4. Four seasons make up a year: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

  5. He scored four goals in the match, setting a new record.