WordGarden.iotriplicate
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /trˈɪplɪkət/
US
- /ˈtrɪplɪkət/
Meanings
Adjective
made in three identical copies or corresponding parts
Noun
one of three identical copies of a document or record
Beyond the definition
Imagine a secret recipe your grandmother guarded fiercely. If she wanted to be absolutely sure it was not lost, she might write it out in triplicate—that is, she would make three identical copies. The word is often used when people talk about forms, records, or reports that must be prepared three times for safety or proper filing. You will often see it in the phrase "in triplicate." For example, an office might ask you to submit a form in triplicate so that three matching copies can be kept or shared. It carries the idea of doing something three times in a careful, organized way.
The word triplicate comes from the Latin triplicare, meaning "to make threefold." It is a versatile word that functions as a verb, an adjective, and a noun.
As a verb, triplicate means to reproduce something three times. You might say, "Please triplicate this document before the meeting," meaning you need three exact versions created. This is a common practice for important paperwork where multiple parties need access or for archival purposes. You will also see this in scientific research, where results are verified by performing tests in triplicate to ensure data consistency and accuracy.
As an adjective, triplicate describes something made as three identical copies, such as "a triplicate form." Most frequently, however, it is used as a noun within the phrase "in triplicate." When an invoice is sent in triplicate, it means that three identical copies have been provided.
While the word literally refers to the number three, it often suggests careful record-keeping and a wish to avoid mistakes or loss. By creating three matching copies, you make it easier for different people or departments to keep the same information. In everyday use, the word usually appears in formal or technical settings, especially when accuracy and documentation matter.
Examples
- 1
Application forms
Please fill out the application form in triplicate.
- Phrasein triplicate
as three identical copies
- 2
Office paperwork
The office still uses triplicate forms for travel expenses.
- 3
Customs papers
Customs papers usually have to be submitted in triplicate.
See also
Similar
Contrast
- duplicate
- single copy
Used with (collocations)
- in triplicate
- triplicate form
Word family
- triplicated
- triplication
Explore
- quadruplicate
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- triplicatenounverbadjective
Forms
- triplicatespluralnounverbadjective
- triplicatedpast tenseverbnounadjective
- triplicating-ing formverbnounadjective