1
a
: allowing or affecting passage or movement in any of four directions
a four-way intersection
a four-way joystick
pants made with a four-way stretch
b
: applicable to traffic from each of four directions
a four-way stop
2
a
: including four participants
a four-way conversation
a four-way tie in the standings
b
: having four components, functions, etc.
File, buff, smooth, and shine—this four-way tool does it all.—Lauren Basalmo
An officer observed a vehicle put on its four-way flashers and stop. The driver stated they ran out of gas.—The St. Joseph (Minnesota) Newsleader

Examples of four-way in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This accent color continues into the cabin on the dashboard and center console, while the standard four-way power-adjustable sport seats add to the sense of occasion with plaid inserts. — Bradley Iger, Robb Report, 16 Oct. 2026 One of the top-selling products is a pair of high-waist, four-way stretch leggings from the brand’s Ultimate range that cost 40 pounds. — Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026 Now there is a four-way tie for first place in Region 4-2A among Social Circle (6-1, 3-1), Putnam County (6-1, 3-1), Jasper County (4-3, 3-1) and Aquinas (5-2, 3-1). — Todd Holcomb, AJC.com, 12 Oct. 2026 Knight was then thrust into a fatal four-way match at Royal Rumble 2024. — Ryan Gaydos Outkick, FOXNews.com, 10 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for four-way

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Time Traveler
The first known use of four-way was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Four-way.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/four-way. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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