triumvir

[trahy-uhm-ver]

noun

plural

triumvirs, triumviri 

1. Roman History.,  one of three officers or magistrates mutually exercising the same public function.

2. one of three persons associated in any office or position of authority.

triumvir

/ traɪˈʌmvə /

noun

1. (esp in ancient Rome) a member of a triumvirate

Other Word Forms

• triumviral adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of triumvir¹

1570–80; < Latin: literally, one man of three, back formation from trium virōrum of three men

Word History and Origins

Origin of triumvir¹

C16: from Latin: one of three administrators, from triumvirōrum of three men, from trēs three + vir man

Example Sentences

When civil war again broke out, De�otarus was persuaded to support Brutus and Cassius, but after the battle of Philippi went over to the triumvirs.

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Indeed, the triumvirs made use of fallen priests to celebrate the sacred ceremonies.

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We reflect that the triumvirs very likely had mannerisms, too, and Antony himself might have been glad to own spectacles.

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He could not remember the name of the third triumvir, and it troubled him greatly.

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Before Cicero spoke, it had been pleaded by Hortensius, and Crassus the triumvir; and Cicero, in engaging in the cause, felt the utmost desire to surpass these rivals of his eloquence.

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