Pronunciation: [kwˈɒdɹuːpləts] (IPA) 
The word "quadruplets" is spelled with a "q" that is followed by a "u." The "a" in the first syllable is pronounced as /æ/, while the "u" in the second syllable is pronounced as /ʌ/. The "d" is silent, and the "p" is pronounced as /p/. The final syllable ends with "-lets," with the "e" being silent and the "s" being pronounced as /z/. Quadruplets are siblings born from the same pregnancy, typically consisting of four babies.
Quadruplets are a noun used to describe a group or set of four individuals who are born from the same pregnancy, resulting in four babies being born simultaneously to the same mother. They are identified as quadruplets based on their shared birth date and their sibling relationship as they share the same biological parents. Quadruplets may be identical, meaning they have developed from a single fertilized egg and thus have the same genetic makeup, or they may be fraternal, which means they develop from separate fertilized eggs and possess different genetic compositions.
The occurrence of quadruplets is relatively rare and often attracts significant attention due to the statistical rarity and novelty of such an event. Multiple pregnancies, leading to quadruplets, frequently involve fertility treatments or certain types of assisted reproductive technologies. However, there are instances when quadruplets can occur naturally, albeit with a lower probability.
Quadruplets often share a special bond due to experiencing the same milestones of life together, growing up together, and often facing similar developmental challenges at the same time. Their birth also places a considerable demand on parents or caregivers, as the care and upbringing of four infants simultaneously require additional support and resources.
The word "quadruplets" comes from the combination of two Latin roots: "quadri-" meaning "four" and "plets" meaning "folded" or "layered". In Latin, "quattuor" means "four" and "plico" means "to fold". These roots are combined to create the word "quadruplets", which refers to a group of four offspring born at the same time, typically as siblings.
