WordGarden.iotriple
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /trˈɪpəl/
US
- /ˈtrɪpəl/
Meanings
Adjective
three times as much or made up of three parts
Verb
to make or become three times as much
Noun
a quantity, amount, or set that is threefold
a baseball hit that lets the batter reach third base
Beyond the definition
"Triple" means three of something or three times as much. Think of a baseball player hitting a triple and racing all the way to third base. It can describe amount, as in a triple scoop of ice cream, or something made of three parts, like a triple alliance between nations. You might also hear about a triple shift at work, meaning work that covers three shifts or lasts three times as long as a normal one.
The word "triple" carries multiple meanings, all revolving around the number three. At its most basic, it signifies multiplying something by three. If one apple costs 3. This applies to measurements, too: a recipe calling for a triple batch would require three times the original ingredients.
But "triple" isn't limited to just math! It frequently describes sets or groupings of three. A triple room in a hotel accommodates three people, and a triple jump in figure skating involves completing three rotations in the air.
In sports, a "triple" has specific meanings depending on the game. In baseball, it's a hit where the batter reaches third base without being put out. In basketball, while a "double-double" is impressive, a "triple-double"—achieving double digits in three statistical categories (such as points, rebounds, and assists)—is truly exceptional!
Figuratively, "triple" can emphasize talent, force, or severity. A triple threat performer can sing, dance, and act. A triple crisis might involve economic hardship, political unrest, and a natural disaster all happening at the same time.
So, whether you're counting, calculating, competing, or facing challenges, "triple" always brings the power of three into play—signifying multiplication, sets, or heightened impact.
Examples
- 1
Coffee order
She ordered a triple espresso before the early meeting.
- 2
Amount comparison
Our electricity bill was triple the usual amount in January.
- 3
Business growth
The company plans to triple its production by next spring.
- 4
Population change
Since the new station opened, the town's population has nearly tripled.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Hotel room
We had to book a triple room because the hotel was full.
- 6
Careful checking
Give the numbers a triple check before you send the email.
- Phrasetriple check
check very carefully, more than once
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- tripleverbadjectivenoun
Forms
- tripledpast tenseverbadjectivenoun
- triplesverbadjectivenoun
- tripling-ing formverbadjectivenoun