quarter
UK: ˈkwɔːtə | US: ˈkwɔːrtər
n. one of four equal parts (1/4)
n. a district or section of a city
n. a period of three months (1/4 of a year)
vt. to divide into four equal parts
vt. to provide lodging for military personnel
quarter = quart<fourth> + er<noun suffix>
- quart (from Latin quartus, meaning "fourth")
- er (a noun-forming suffix in English, often indicating agency or association)
Etymology Origin:
The word "quarter" traces back to Latin quartus (fourth), reflecting its core meaning of division into four parts. It entered English via Old French quartier, retaining the concept of a fourth segment. Over time, it expanded to denote spatial divisions (e.g., city districts) and temporal divisions (e.g., fiscal quarters), while also acquiring military usage ("to quarter troops"). The suffix -er solidifies its role as a noun or verb.
She cut the apple into quarters to share with her friends.
The historic quarter of the city is full of charming cafes.
The company's profits rose sharply in the third quarter.
Soldiers were quartered in the village during the war.
Can you quarter this recipe? We only need half the ingredients.