triplane

[ trahy-pleyn ]

1. an airplane with three supporting wings, one above another: a design used mainly in the early history of the airplane.

triplane

/ ˈtraɪˌpleɪn /

noun

1. an aeroplane having three wings arranged one above the other

Word History and Origins

Origin of triplane¹

First recorded in 1905–10; tri- + plane ¹

Example Sentences

The night bomber is very often a huge triplane, for the extra wing surface gives greater lifting power.

From Project Gutenberg

First of all the pioneer designer had to choose between the monoplane, the biplane and the triplane.

From Project Gutenberg

The huge night bombing machine of the present time is almost always of the triplane type.

From Project Gutenberg

Until clever engineers came to the rescue with an improved aircraft motor, the triplane was very much in disfavor.

From Project Gutenberg

Their three bombers, including a smaller triplane and a biplane, headed the list of their fellows at the front.

From Project Gutenberg