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.
The four-way stretch structure results in clothes that naturally adjust to fit body sizes from extra-small to large without losing their shape or offering a luxurious feel. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2026 He was then thrust into a fatal four-way match for the Undisputed WWE Championship at Royal Rumble in 2024 against Reigns, AJ Styles and Randy Orton. — Ryan Gaydos Outkick, FOXNews.com, 5 Oct. 2026 Jersey sheets have a cozy four-way stretch that feels like your favorite T-shirt, while long-staple sheets are brushed for plush durability and percale stays naturally cool and wicks moisture. — ABC News, 3 Oct. 2026 The four-way stretch material is breathable and flexible, and the pants have four pockets to keep your essentials close. — Kaitlin Gates, Travel + Leisure, 29 Sep. 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 14 Oct. 2026.

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