quadrilateral

[ kwod-ruh-lat-er-uhl ]

adjective

1. having four sides.

noun

1. a plane figure having four sides and four angles.
2. something of this form.
3. Geometry.
   1. a figure formed by four straight lines that have six points of intersection.
   2. a polygon with four sides.
4. the space enclosed between and defended by four fortresses.

quadrilateral

/ ˌkwɒdrɪˈlætərəl /

adjective

1. having or formed by four sides

noun

1. Also calledtetragon a polygon having four sides. A complete quadrilateral consists of four lines and their six points of intersection

quadrilateral

/ kwŏd′rə-lăt′ər-əl /

1. A polygon that has four sides, such as a rectangle or rhombus.

Other Words From

• quadri·later·al·ly adverb
• quadri·later·al·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of quadrilateral¹

First recorded in 1640–50; from Latin quadrilater(us) “four-sided” + -al ¹; equivalent to quadri- + lateral

Example Sentences

But a quadrilateral would also be constituted by four lines arranged in some particular manner.

From Project Gutenberg

A figure that is bounded by four straight lines is termed a quadrangle, quadrilateral or tetragon.

From Project Gutenberg

Platt-Teutsch platooning, bayonet-charging,—on such terms no Russian or mortal Quadrilateral can stand it.

From Project Gutenberg

This left in the hands of the Austrians still an important part of northern Italy known as the Quadrilateral.

From Project Gutenberg

The first stage or platform is at the height of 189 feet, and forms a quadrilateral 213 feet square, fitted up as a restaurant.

From Project Gutenberg