How Do You Spell FOURPLEX?

Pronunciation: [fˈɔːplɛks] (IPA)

The word "fourplex" is a combination of "four" and "complex", and refers to a building with four separate living units. In terms of pronunciation, the word is spelled with the phonetic symbols /ˈfɔr.pleks/, where the stress falls on the first syllable (represented by the apostrophe in the transcription). The initial "f" is pronounced with a voiceless labiodental fricative, while the "r" is pronounced as a retroflex approximant. The second syllable features a lax vowel "i" and a voiceless velar stop "k".

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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FOURPLEX Meaning and Definition

  1. A fourplex refers to a specific type of residential building or dwelling unit that consists of four separate living spaces or apartments under one roof. It is essentially a small-scale multifamily property that is designed to accommodate four different households or families. Each individual living space within a fourplex typically has its own entrance, separate utilities, and dedicated amenities.

    The term "fourplex" is derived from the combination of the words "four" and "plex," with "plex" being a shortened version of "multiplex," which refers to any building or property containing multiple rental units. Fourplexes are commonly designed in a two-story layout, with two living spaces situated on the ground floor and the remaining two on the upper level.

    Fourplexes are often seen as an attractive investment opportunity for real estate investors due to their potential for generating rental income from multiple units. They offer some key advantages over single-family properties, including increased cash flow potential and reduced risk through diversified rental income. Additionally, fourplexes can be an affordable housing option for individuals or families seeking a more affordable renting alternative compared to larger multi-unit apartment complexes.

    Overall, a fourplex is a residential property consisting of four separate living spaces, typically designed in a two-story layout, that provides housing for multiple households or families within the same building.

Etymology of FOURPLEX

The word "fourplex" is a blend of two words, "four" and "multiplex".

"Four" comes from the Old English word "fēower", which traces back to Proto-Germanic. It is related to words in other Germanic languages like the Old High German word "fior", Old Norse word "fjórir", and Dutch word "vier".

The term "multiplex" originated from Latin, where "multi" means "many" and "plex" means "fold" or "entwined". It came into English through Late Latin and has been used since the early 19th century to describe structures or systems with multiple components or functions.

Combining "four" and "multiplex" to create "fourplex" occurred sometime in the early to mid-20th century, as a way to describe residential buildings with four separate units or apartments.