trident
n. countable C2 Proficiency US //ˈtɹaɪdənt// UK //tɹˈaɪdənt// tri·dent
n. a large spear with three sharp points. You often see it in pictures of the Greek god Poseidon or other sea characters.
n. a three-pronged spear or pole, historically used for spear fishing and as a weapon in gladiatorial combat. Frequently associated with maritime mythology and iconography.
The statue of the sea god holds a golden trident.
In ancient Rome, the retiarius was a type of gladiator who fought using a net and a trident.
The national flag of Barbados features a broken trident, symbolizing a break from its colonial past while maintaining a connection to the sea.
PIE word *tréyes From Latin tridēns, from tri- (“three”) + dēns (“tooth”).
Usage
Commonly used in mythological or historical contexts; rarely used to describe modern tools.