triple threat

American  

noun

1. an expert in three different fields or in three different skills in the same field.

2. Football. a back who is proficient at running, passing, and punting.

   The triple threat is a rare find for coaches.

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triple threat Idioms  

1. A person who is adept in three areas, as in She's a triple threat on the editorial staff—she can edit, write, and design pages. This term comes from football, where it signifies a player who is good at running, passing, and kicking. [c. 1920] Also see hat trick.

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Etymology

Origin of triple threat

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

A health-savings account, for example, is a triple threat — tax-deductible contributions, tax-free growth and tax-free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses.

From MarketWatch • May 14, 2026

This time, markets are watching for intervention as Japan faces a complex triple threat: rising crude prices, a widening trade deficit and a fundamental shift in domestic fiscal policy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

Together with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, the 76ers were expected to be contenders this season but their time together as a triple threat has been limited by injuries.

From Barron's • Jan. 31, 2026

"ChatGPT Barbie represents a triple threat to our privacy, our culture and our planet," said Ms Neff.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2025

His selection at No. 8 proved a stretch, but the dynamic playmaker was a triple threat as a receiver, ball-carrier and kick returner during three Rams seasons in St. Louis under then-coach Jeff Fisher..

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2024