four-wheel drive

noun

, Automotive.

1. a drive system in which engine power is transmitted to all four wheels for improved traction.
2. a vehicle having such a system. : 4WD

four-wheel drive

noun

1. a system used in motor vehicles in which all four wheels are connected to the source of power

Other Words From

• four-wheel-drive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of four-wheel drive¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

A forest ranger in a four-wheel drive picks me up.

From BBC

They had a kind of hysterical look and emphatically told us not to try, even though my Toyota Highlander SUV has four-wheel drive.

From Los Angeles Times

The shuttle is also convenient for those who are not comfortable driving in the snow or with four-wheel drive, chains and snow tires — and for those looking to melt the Seattle Freeze.

From Seattle Times

Boothe recommends getting a look at the decomposing whale at low tide and with a four-wheel drive vehicle.

From Seattle Times

Residents described the forest track as "deeply rutted" and a challenge even for four-wheel drive vehicles.

From BBC