Quadrilateral

noun; also adjective

/ˌkwɒdrɪˈlætərəl/

Having four sides; in geopolitics, describing a strategic arrangement or dialogue involving four parties, as in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad).

✍️ Usage in a UPSC answer

The revival of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue reflects India's recalibrated strategy of partnering with like-minded democracies to preserve a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific order against the backdrop of an increasingly assertive China.

Synonyms

quadrangletetragonfour-sided figurefour-sidedfoursquare

Antonyms

triangletrilateralbilateralunilateral

🌱 Word Family

quadrilateral (n/adj), quadrilaterally (adv)

🔡 Root

Late Latin quadrilaterus; Latin quadri- = four; latus/later- = side; -al suffix; attested early 1600s

📜 Etymology

From Late Latin quadrilaterus, from Latin quadri- ("four") + latus, later- ("side") + -al; first used in English in the early 1600s.

🧠 Memory Hook

Quadri- (four, as in "quad bike" with four wheels) + lateral (side, as in a "lateral pass" to the side) = a four-sided figure. Picture a college "quad" courtyard framed by four buildings.

📝 Seen in UPSC Question Papers

Mains 2020 · GS2 · 15 marks — International Relations

Real UPSC previous-year questions whose text uses “Quadrilateral” — proof this word earns its place on your list.

🤝 International Relations 📖 Seen in: India's Strategic Partnerships — USA, ...

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