Origin of '3-way' and '4-way' terms?

[e57]

David, you really need to walk softly when speaking of your preferred installation practices as "rules." You're going to run the gauntlet when you make comments like that.

Uhhh Huh..... But I would like to hear more about this 60' rule (of thumb). As most of us would go much longer depending on what was on it.

As for the 3/4 point terminology - If you dig around the American Electricians Handbook you'll find a number of items where terminology has changed. Although this seems to be a clear transition point of quite possibly regional terminology being blended with wider national or broader regional common use. One must figure the wiring of buildings was in its infancy at the time - say 30+ years in some big cities loaded with existing structures lighted by gas, and only beginning in rural areas outside of the homes of the wealthy.

 

[e57]

Why isn't a 4-way called a double 3-way? It doesn't go 'four ways'....

Or reversing 3-way? It takes 2 "in" - and sends 2 "out" either this way, or that way...

Still only two ways... Straight through or cross ways...

 

[charlie b]

If you come to a T-intersection, and you have a choice between turning left or turning right, which WAY are you going to go? Think of the notions of 3-way and 4-way in this context, and they will make more sense. Think of "way" as meaning "pathway."