English Reference
noun

trio

n.
US /ˈtɹiˌoʊ/ UK /tɹˈiːəʊ/ trio UK spelling trios

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    a group of three people or things that are often seen together.

    a set or group of three people or things, often implying a close relationship or shared purpose.

    Simple

    The famous trio of friends always sat at the same table for lunch.

    In context

    The novel follows a trio of investigators as they navigate the complex political landscape of post-war Europe.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate Music

    a group of three musicians who perform together.

    a musical ensemble consisting of three performers.

    Simple

    The jazz trio played late into the night at the local club.

    In context

    The piano trio, consisting of a violinist, a cellist, and a pianist, received a standing ovation for their technical precision.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Music

    a piece of music written to be played by three people.

    a musical composition written for three voices or instruments.

    Simple

    The students practiced a difficult trio by Mozart for their final exam.

    In context

    Schubert's late chamber works include a hauntingly beautiful trio that challenges even the most seasoned performers.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced Technical Music

    a middle section of a piece of music, like a minuet or a march.

    the second or middle section of a musical movement, such as a minuet, scherzo, or march, typically contrasting in texture or key.

    Simple

    The band played the trio of the march more softly than the opening.

    In context

    In many classical symphonies, the trio provides a lyrical contrast to the more rhythmic character of the surrounding minuet.

  5. 05 C2 Proficiency Technical Cooking

    a type of cocktail made with a spirit, a sweet liqueur, and cream.

    a category of mixed drink consisting of a base spirit, a liqueur, and a cream-based ingredient.

    Simple

    A Brandy Alexander is a classic trio served after dinner.

    In context

    The bartender specialized in trios, carefully balancing the heavy cream with high-proof spirits to ensure the drink remained sophisticated.

A trio of choughs – Cornwall’s national bird – hopped around on the hillside, looking a little less graceful than usual.

The Guardian· 12 Aug 2026

New images from the James Webb telescope show a galaxy with a trio of supermassive black holes.

The New York Times· 12 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated