four-wheel drive

noun

: an automotive drive mechanism that acts on all four wheels of the vehicle
also : a vehicle equipped with such a drive

Examples of four-wheel drive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Many roads to scenic spots are dirt, not blacktop, and best handled by vehicles with four-wheel drive and high clearance. — Christopher Reynolds, Los Angeles Times, 15 Mar. 2023 The two men, along with Corduroy, Ryan’s chocolate lab, climbed into Ryan’s four-wheel drive. — Thallman, oregonlive, 18 Mar. 2023 The car also offers both two- and four-wheel drive, plus regenerative braking. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 20 Mar. 2023 But, with that locking center diff, Hyundai and Kia crossovers can operate in true four-wheel drive in some conditions. — Wes Siler, Outside Online, 16 Feb. 2023 See All Example Sentences for four-wheel drive

Word History

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of four-wheel drive was in 1926

Rhymes for four-wheel drive

See All Rhymes for four-wheel drive

Browse Nearby Words

four-wheel
four-wheel drive
four-wheeled scraper
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Four-wheel drive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/four-wheel%20drive. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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