trilingual

[ trahy-ling-gwuhlor, Canadian, -ling-gyoo-uhl ]

adjective

1. using, speaking, or involving three languages.

trilingual

/ traɪˈlɪŋɡwəl /

adjective

1. able to speak three languages fluently
2. expressed or written in three languages

Derived Forms

• triˈlingually, adverb
• triˈlingualism, noun

Other Words From

• tri·lingual·ism noun
• tri·lingual·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of trilingual¹

1825–35; < Latin trilingu ( is ) triple-tongued + -al ¹. See tri-, lingual

Example Sentences

Trilingual, trī-ling′gwal, adj. consisting of three tongues or languages.

From Project Gutenberg

The next problem in the study of cuneiform was the decipherment of the second language in each of the trilingual groups.

From Project Gutenberg

He had copied two trilingual inscriptions, and recognized at once that he had three languages before him.

From Project Gutenberg

The only inscription at Wan that I could not copy was the trilingual tablet of Xerxes.

From Project Gutenberg

He wandered about Europe, became bilingual, if not trilingual (he was never quite happy in German speech or German philosophy).

From Project Gutenberg