four-letter

adjective

four-let·​ter ˈfȯr-ˈle-tər How to pronounce four-letter (audio)
: of, relating to, or being four-letter words

Examples of four-letter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As the Tribune would later point out, Elia used four-letter words, 10-letter words and 12-letter words. Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 11 July 2025 Democrats are joining the four-letter fray with words once considered off limits — other than behind closed doors or in small groups — now more common. South Florida Sun Sentinel, Sun Sentinel, 7 July 2025 The lingering futility has left fans steaming mad and resorting to four-letter words to express their frustration with the franchise, according to The Vegas Insider. Kendrick Marshall, Charlotte Observer, 6 June 2025 The road from political exile, many Democrats seemed to feel, is richly paved with four-letter words. Mark Z. Barabak, Mercury News, 4 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for four-letter

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of four-letter was in 1897

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Cite this Entry

“Four-letter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/four-letter. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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