fourth

A2 · Elementary Countable noun American English

n. one of four equal parts of something.

n. one of four equal parts into which something is or may be divided. Often used in American English where British English prefers 'quarter'.

“He ate a fourth of the pizza before the others arrived.”

“The budget allocation for research represents roughly a fourth of the total annual expenditure for the department.”

B1 · Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. the fourth speed or gear in a vehicle.

n. the fourth transmission gear in a motor vehicle, typically used for moderate cruising speeds.

“You should shift into fourth once you reach the main road.”

“The driver shifted smoothly from third into fourth as the car accelerated onto the motorway.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Music Technical

n. the distance between the first and fourth notes in a scale.

n. a musical interval spanning four degrees of the diatonic scale.

“The melody begins with a perfect fourth.”

“The composer utilised a series of perfect fourths to create a sense of modern, open harmony in the opening movement.”

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun American English

n. a short way to say the Fourth of July holiday in the US.

n. a reference to the United States Independence Day holiday. Usually capitalised.

“We are planning a big barbecue for the Fourth.”

“The city hosts a spectacular fireworks display every Fourth, attracting thousands of visitors to the waterfront.”

C1 · Advanced Informal · Humorous

v. to say you agree with an idea after three other people have already agreed.

v. to express agreement with a proposal that has already been supported by three others. Follows the sequence of 'seconding' and 'thirding' a motion.

“I'll fourth that suggestion; let's go get some coffee.”

“After several colleagues voiced their approval, Sarah joked that she would fourth the motion to end the meeting early.”