ENGLISH
REFERENCE

thirds

n.
US //ˈθɝdz// UK //θˈɜːdz// thirds
  1. 1 fractional parts (n.)
    A2 Elementary Math

    two or more of the three equal parts that make up a whole.

    the plural form of the fractional unit representing one of three equal parts of a whole.

    Example

    He cut the large pizza into thirds so that each of the three children had an equal piece.

    Example

    The committee divided the annual budget into thirds, allocating specific portions to research, infrastructure, and administrative overheads.
  2. 2 extra food (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Informal

    a third serving or helping of food or drink.

    a third portion or helping of food or beverage provided to a single person.

    Example

    The cake was so delicious that I actually went back for thirds.

    Example

    Despite having already finished two generous plates, the guest jokingly asked if the host would permit him to have thirds of the dessert.
  3. 3 university grade (n.)
    C1 Advanced British English

    the lowest passing grade for a degree at a British university.

    third-class honours degrees, representing the lowest passing tier of undergraduate classification in the British higher education system.

    Example

    He was disappointed to get a third, but he was glad to finally graduate.

    Example

    While many top-tier firms only recruit graduates with firsts or upper-seconds, some smaller companies are willing to interview candidates with thirds if they have relevant experience.
    • third class honours
  4. 4 legal inheritance (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Archaic Technical Law

    a historical law where a widow received one-third of her late husband's property.

    the portion of a deceased husband's estate to which a widow was entitled by law for the duration of her life.

    Example

    Under the old laws, the widow was granted her thirds to ensure she had a place to live.

    Example

    The legal dispute centered on whether the local statutes regarding thirds applied to the movable property or strictly to the landed estate.
    • dower
Related words

Last updated June 20, 2026