English Reference
adjective · verb · noun

triple

adj. · v. · n.
US /ˈtɹɪpəɫ/ UK /tɹˈɪpəl/ triple UK spelling tripled, triples

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Math

    adj.three times as much or as many as usual.

    adj.consisting of three times the quantity, amount, or degree.

    Simple

    He ordered a triple espresso because he was feeling very tired.

    In context

    The company reported a triple increase in profits compared to the previous fiscal year, exceeding all market expectations.

    threefoldtreble
  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    adj.made of three parts or layers.

    adj.composed of three related elements, parts, or layers.

    Simple

    The window has triple glazing to keep the house warm in winter.

    In context

    The diplomat negotiated a triple alliance between the neighbouring states to ensure long-term regional stability.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to become three times as big, or to make something three times as big.

    v.to increase or multiply by three; to become threefold in size or amount.

    Simple

    The price of the house has tripled since they bought it ten years ago.

    In context

    The city expects the population of the suburb to triple once the new high-speed rail link is completed.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a number or amount that is three times as large as another.

    n.a thing that is three times as large as another or occurs in a set of three.

    Simple

    Fifteen is the triple of five.

    In context

    The final cost was a triple of the original estimate, leading to a formal inquiry into the project's management.

  5. 05 C1 Advanced Informal

    n.a drink that contains three servings of alcohol.

    n.a single serving of a beverage, typically spirits, containing three standard measures.

    Simple

    He asked the bartender for a triple whiskey on the rocks.

    In context

    After a particularly stressful shift, he ordered a triple at the hotel bar before heading up to his room.

  6. 06 B2 Upper Intermediate American English Sport

    n.a hit in baseball that lets the batter reach third base.

    n.a three-base hit that allows the batter to reach third base safely.

    Simple

    The crowd cheered when he hit a triple into deep right field.

    In context

    The outfielder's hesitation allowed the runner to turn a routine double into a spectacular triple.

    three bagger

PIE word *tréyes From Middle English triple (also þripell), from Latin triplus. Doublet of treble.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin triplus
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated