quadrennium

[ kwo-dren-ee-uhm ]

noun

, plural quad·ren·ni·ums, quad·ren·ni·a [kwo-, dren, -ee-, uh].

1. a period of four years.

quadrennium

/ kwɒˈdrɛnɪəm /

noun

1. a period of four years

Word History and Origins

Origin of quadrennium¹

1815–25; < New Latin, alteration of Latin quadriennium, equivalent to quadri- quadri- + -enn-, combining form of annus year ( annual ) + -ium -ium

Word History and Origins

Origin of quadrennium¹

C17: from Latin quadriennium, from quadri- + annus year

Example Sentences

The world championships held immediately after the Olympics are typically a lower-profile competition because they are the first in each new quadrennium and don’t include a team competition.

From Washington Post

The veteran competing at her third Games climbed onto the podium next to a 31-year-old who until this quadrennium had played only indoor volleyball.

From Washington Post

Unwilling to abandon the sport she still speaks about with adoration, she hung on for another quadrennium, well into her 20s.

From Washington Post

Midway through this quadrennium, our elected state leadership has failed to present, pursue and pass a cogent, clear program.

From Washington Times

Year No. 2 of the Edwards quadrennium started off with some heavy breathing, evidence of a continuing political struggle between the Republican-dominated House of Representatives and the executive branch, held by our Democratic governor.

From Washington Times