WordGarden.iofoursquare
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /fˈɔːskweə/
US
- /ˈfɔrsˈkwɛr/
Meanings
Noun
a playground ball game played by four players in a four-square court
Proper-noun
the location-based app, platform, or company called Foursquare
Adjective
direct, firm, and unwavering in manner or conviction
square in shape or solidly block-like
Adverb
directly and squarely
Beyond the definition
Think of something built in a plain, solid square form. That is the starting point of "foursquare." It can describe something that is literally square or block-like, with a steady and balanced look. From there, the word also grew into a way to describe people and actions. A "foursquare" person is open, honest, and firm, not slippery or vague. The word can also suggest clear support or opposition, as when someone stands "foursquare" behind a plan or speaks "foursquare" against an idea.
Historically, "foursquare" described something that was truly square, with four equal sides or a broad, block-like form. You can picture a solid stone building, a squared piece of timber, or anything that looks plain, sturdy, and evenly set. This physical sense gave the word its deeper feeling of steadiness and firmness.
In figurative use, "foursquare" often describes a person who is direct, honest, and steady in character. A "foursquare" person does not dodge, hide, or speak in circles. They seem reliable, plainspoken, and firm in what they believe. In the same way, a "foursquare denial" is not a weak or careful reply; it is a clear and firm denial.
The word is also used for strong, plain support or opposition. If someone is "foursquare" behind a cause, they support it openly and fully. If they stand "foursquare" against something, they oppose it just as firmly. Whether it describes shape, character, or attitude, "foursquare" carries the same core idea: something solid, clear, and steady, with no sense of weakness or doubt.
Examples
- 1
Political support
The party stood foursquare behind its leader after the scandal.
- Phrasestand foursquare behind someone
support them completely and publicly
- 2
Policy position
She was always foursquare in support of free school meals.
- 3
Legal opposition
Several judges came out foursquare against the proposed law.
- Patternfoursquare against + proposal/idea
strongly and openly opposed to it
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- steadfastly
- resolutely
- forthrightly
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- stand foursquare behind
- stand foursquare against
- come down foursquare on
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- foursquarenounadjectiveadverb