triplicity

[ trih-plis-i-tee ]

noun

, plural tri·plic·i·ties.

1. the quality or state of being triple; threefold character or condition.
2. a group or combination of three; triad.
3. Astrology. the division of the signs of the zodiac into four groups of three signs each, the fire signs, the earth signs, the air signs, and the water signs, with each sign separated from others within the group by 120 degrees of the ecliptic. Compare element ( def 12 ).

triplicity

/ trɪˈplɪsɪtɪ /

noun

1. a group of three things
2. the state of being three
3. astrology any of four groups, earth, air, fire, and water, each consisting of three signs of the zodiac that are thought to have something in common in their nature

Word History and Origins

Origin of triplicity¹

1350–1400; Middle English triplicite < Late Latin triplicitās threefold state. See triplex, -ity

Word History and Origins

Origin of triplicity¹

C14: from Late Latin triplicitās , from Latin triplex threefold; see triplex

Example Sentences

We have already noticed the triplicity, in some instances, of Norman chancel arches.

From Project Gutenberg

We are utterly tired of the triplicity; and we are mistaken if its application here be not as inconsistent as it is arbitrary.

From Project Gutenberg

The same triplicity of ἀρχαὶ in the organism had been recognised by Erasistratus, later than Aristotle, though long before Galen.

From Project Gutenberg

There is a strong and lasting sympathy among persons belonging to signs of the same group, or Triplicity.

From Project Gutenberg

In this statement this master agrees with the philosophers who give a triplicity of essential principles as the base of ontology.

From Project Gutenberg