τετράγωνος
tetrágōnos
G5068 predicate adjective
SILEX Entry
Definition
Having four angles or corners; hence, square or rectangular in shape. The term denotes an object that is equal-sided, especially in reference to length and breadth, with four right angles. In certain contexts, it simply indicates a geometric form with four sides and four angles, but may be more specifically a regular square.
Semantic Range
having four corners, four-sided, square, rectangular, foursquare
Root / Etymology
From the combination of τέσσαρες (four) and γωνία (angle, corner), forming τετράγωνος to signify 'four-angled' or 'having four corners.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
τετράγωνος is attested from classical Greek onward, consistently referring to a geometric figure with four equal angles. In Hellenistic and Koine usage (including the Septuagint and New Testament), it most often describes something 'square' or 'foursquare'—for example, as a technical specification in architecture or temple design (e.g., describing the form of altars or the New Jerusalem in Rev 21:16). The standard English translation 'foursquare' echoes older tradition but may obscure the accent on geometric precision. The term does not carry symbolic or metaphorical meaning in these contexts, but strictly describes the form. Related geometric terms (e.g., τρίγωνος, 'triangular') serve as contrasts, specifying figures with different numbers of sides.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from τέσσαρες and γωνία; four-cornered, i.e. square:--foursquare.
Root Family
τετράγων- (tetrágōnos) — to be square, to have four corners or angles
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G5068-01 |
τετράγωνος | tetragonos | ADJ.P NOM F SG |
foursquare | four-cornered | foursquare | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G5068-01 |
Revelation 21:16 | τετράγωνος | tetragonos | ADJ.P NOM F SG |
foursquare | four-cornered | foursquare |