# triplet

/ˈtɹɪpɫət/ (US) · /tɹˈɪplət/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/triplet
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

a group of three things that are connected or similar. In music, it means playing three notes in the time of two.

For teachers: a set of three related items or a sequence of three notes performed in the time of two. Often used in technical contexts like genetics or physics to describe a specific three-part structure.

## Examples

- The pianist played a triplet in the left hand.
- The composer used a triplet to create a sense of urgency in the final movement of the symphony.
- In genetic coding, a triplet of nucleotides determines a specific amino acid, forming the fundamental basis for protein synthesis within the cell.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.