Definition

1. Noun:
   • A transmission system: A mechanical system that provides power directly to all four wheels of a motor vehicle simultaneously, improving traction.
   • A vehicle: A motor vehicle equipped with a four-wheel drive transmission system.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Transmission System):

  • The truck's 4wd handled the muddy road with ease.
  • Engage the 4wd before attempting to climb the steep hill.

• Noun (Vehicle):

  • We rented a 4wd for our camping trip in the mountains.
  • His new 4wd is very capable off-road.

Advanced Usage

• "Part-time 4wd": A system where the driver must manually select two-wheel or four-wheel drive mode.

  • Older models often have part-time 4wd, which is more fuel-efficient on paved roads.

• "Full-time 4wd" / "All-wheel drive (AWD)": A system that permanently powers all four wheels, often used interchangeably in common parlance, though technical distinctions exist.

  • Many modern SUVs come with full-time 4wd for enhanced safety in all conditions.

Variants and Related Words

• Four-wheel drive (n): The full term for 4wd.

  • The brochure advertises "four-wheel drive" capability.

• 4x4 (n): A common synonym, especially for the vehicle itself.

  • He's been looking at used 4x4 trucks.

• All-terrain vehicle (ATV) (n): A different type of small, open vehicle, often with four wheels, designed for off-road use.

Synonyms

• Four-by-four: Another common term for a vehicle with four-wheel drive.
• Off-road vehicle: A broader category that includes 4wd vehicles.

Related Phrases

• To have 4wd: To be equipped with a four-wheel drive system.

  • Does this model have 4wd?

• 4wd capability: The quality of being suitable for off-road or low-traction driving.

  • The car is marketed for its 4wd capability.

Noun

1. a transmission that provides power directly to all four wheels of a motor vehicle
2. a motor vehicle with a four-wheel drive transmission system