fourth
This term functions as an ordinal number, designating a specific position in a linear sequence. It carries a neutral, precise connotation and is used primarily for indexing, ranking, or chronological ordering. While it is most common in mathematical or sequential lists, it also appears in temporal contexts to mark the fourth single unit of a time series.
When used as a noun or adjective referring to a fraction, it describes one of four equal parts of a whole. In this specific capacity, the word can be used as a countable noun, allowing for the plural form fourths when referring to multiple quarters of various wholes.
Meanings
Collocations & Compounds
fourth place
the position of number four in a competition
He finished in fourth place.
fourth quarter
the final period of a game or fiscal year
The company saw growth in the fourth quarter.
fourth floor
the level above the third floor of a building
My office is on the fourth floor.
fourth wall
the imaginary barrier between actors and audience
The comedian broke the fourth wall.
fourth dimension
a theoretical fourth spatial or temporal dimension
Physicists study the fourth dimension.