quadrivial
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /kwɪˈdrɪviəl/
KK: /kwɪˈdrɪviəl/
adjective
Definition
Describing a point where four paths or roads come together.
Example
The quadrivial intersection was busy with cars coming from all directions.
Conversation
Have you seen that new park with the quadrivial intersection?
Yeah, it's pretty cool how the paths come together there.
I love how it makes it easy to choose different directions.
Exactly! It adds a nice touch to the layout of the park.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fourfold
quadrate
tetradic
Antonyms
single
unidirectional
monadic
noun
Definition
One of the four subjects that are considered essential in a classical education, specifically arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy.
Example
In ancient education, students studied the quadrivial to gain a well-rounded understanding of the liberal arts.
Conversation
I just learned about something called the quadrivial in my history class.
Oh really? What's that all about?
It's one of the four liberal arts that make up the quadrivium.
Root Explanation
Quadrivial → It is formed from "quadri-" (meaning four) and "via" (meaning way or road). The word refers to a place where four roads meet, hence a crossroads or junction.
Memory Tip
Think of 'four' ('quadri-') paths or 'ways' ('via') coming together — that's what quadrivial means.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.