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Definitions

on all fours

ADJECTIVE
creeping
Synonyms
STRONGEST
dragging
STRONG
crawling groveling hobbling inching quailing shambling shuffling skulking slinking slithering sneaking squirming worming wriggling writhing
WEAK
barely moving moving slowly
Antonyms
WEAK
standing upright vertical

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I went in probably on all fours just because I was tired.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

He explained how a person could be constantly tripping over debris and obstructions and at times having to go "on all fours" to try to get through the tunnel.

From BBC • Feb. 18, 2026

The agile robot dog springs up on all fours, takes a step forward and charges at the tense crowd at a Tokyo exhibit, held back by a simple yet strong metal chain.

From Barron's • Jan. 30, 2026

Although its limbs were not preserved, the researchers believe it moved on all fours, similar to related species.

From Science Daily • Nov. 12, 2025

Tossing her head in wolf happiness, she crawled out of her tent on all fours and nudged him under the chin.

From "Julie of the Wolves" by Jean Craighead George