four-way

adjective

ˈfȯr-ˈwā 

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

The protocol resembles drivers at a four-way stop – informal rules that mostly work without anyone directing traffic. — Aylin Yener, The Conversation, 8 Sep. 2026

Ideal for all seasons, the pants offer four-way stretch, moisture-wicking fabric, and chafe-free seams. — Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Sep. 2026

Swap your stiff, uncomfortable trousers for these pleated, wide-leg pants that are made from a four-way stretch, wrinkle-resistant fabric. — Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 30 Aug. 2026

Brennan lost the four-way Democratic primary election in early August, where Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley became the nominee. — La Risa R. Lynch, jsonline.com, 28 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

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

Rhymes for four-way

• airway
• allay
• archway
• array
• ashtray
• assez
• astray
• aue
• away
• ballet
• belay
• beltway