quadrennial

American  

[kwo-dren-ee-uhl] / kwɒˈdrɛn i əl /

adjective

1. occurring every four years.

   a quadrennial festival.

2. of or lasting for four years.

   a quadrennial period.

---

noun

1. an event occurring every four years, as an anniversary or its celebration.

quadrennial British  

/ kwɒˈdrɛnɪəl /

adjective

1. occurring every four years

2. relating to or lasting four years

---

noun

1. a period of four years

Other Word Forms

• quadrennially adverb

Etymology

Origin of quadrennial

1640–50; earlier quadriennial < Latin quadrienni ( um ) ( quadrennium ) + -al ¹

Example Sentences

The men's national team last graced the global stage in France 1998 but it has failed to qualify for the six quadrennial editions since then.

From BBC

Four years ago, England were put through their quadrennial humiliation.

From BBC

Critics have also voiced concern that the quadrennial athletic event could displace low-income tenants, particularly those who live near Olympic venues.

From Los Angeles Times

Historically, polls have shown that those quadrennial 90 minutes have little effect on how people will vote in the presidential election.

From Los Angeles Times

Two years into the Olympic cycle means many sports are due to hold their own quadrennial events in July and August 2026.

From BBC