Quarter

Definition

Quarter is a noun, verb, and adjective. As a noun, it refers to one of four equal parts of something, a period of three months in a year, or a coin worth one-fourth of a dollar. As a verb, it means to divide into four equal parts or to provide lodging. As an adjective, it relates to something that constitutes a fourth part.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkwɔːr.tɚ/
• Respelling: KWOR-ter

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkwɔː.tə/
• Respelling: KWAW-tuh

Etymology

The word "quarter" originates from the Latin "quartarius," meaning "a fourth part," derived from "quartus," meaning "fourth." It entered Middle English through Old French "quartier" in the 14th century.

Derivatives

• Quarterly (adjective/adverb)
• Quarters (noun)
• Quarterback (noun)
• Quarterfinal (noun)
• Quartermaster (noun)

Synonyms

• Fourth
• Segment
• Portion

Antonyms

• Whole
• Half
• None

Usage

The term "quarter" is widely used in mathematics, finance, sports, and daily life. Examples include "He paid with a quarter" (noun), "They quartered the cake for the guests" (verb), and "The quarter mark on the ruler is clearly visible" (adjective).

Related Terms

• Half: One of two equal parts of something.
• Fraction: A numerical representation of a part of a whole.
• Segment: A portion or division of something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• One-fourth part of something: Refers to dividing an entity into four equal sections.
  • Example: "A quarter of the pizza was left uneaten."
• A period of three months in a year: Refers to one-fourth of a calendar or fiscal year.
  • Example: "The company reported higher profits in the second quarter."
• A coin worth one-fourth of a dollar: Refers to the United States currency unit.
  • Example: "He found a quarter on the sidewalk."
• A district or area: Refers to a section of a city or town.
  • Example: "They explored the historic French Quarter in New Orleans."

Verb

• To divide into four equal parts: Refers to the act of sectioning something into quarters.
  • Example: "The butcher quartered the carcass."
• To provide lodging or shelter: Refers to accommodating people, especially soldiers.
  • Example: "The troops were quartered in nearby barracks."

Adjective

• Relating to one-fourth of something: Describes an object or measurement that represents a fourth part.
  • Example: "The quarter turn brought the compass to face east."