four-wheel drive
Americannoun
-
a drive system in which engine power is transmitted to all four wheels for improved traction.
-
a vehicle having such a system. 4WD
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of four-wheel drive
First recorded in 1925–30
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
We and our predecessor, Oshkosh Motor Truck Manufacturing Co. have manufactured continuously since 1917 four wheel drive trucks under the registered trade-mark Oshkosh, which trucks are known as the Oshkosh Four Wheel Drive Trucks.
From Time Magazine Archive
![]()
But there is a very serious side to Quadski as well: emergency services and aid workers will be able to reach areas and people no two or four wheel drive vehicle could reach.�
From Time Magazine Archive
![]()
The recent trend towards four wheel drive vehicles and SUVs has drivers convinced they're safer driving in winter conditions.
From Time Magazine Archive
![]()
And the quickest way to solitude is via a four wheel drive, eh?
From Unmanned by Oliver, Stephen
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.