Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Thrice Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”„
Add to dictionary

thrice

[ฮธraษชs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

frequency, repetition

The word 'thrice' means three times. It is often used in formal or literary contexts to indicate that something occurs three times. Although it is less common in everyday speech, it serves as a concise way to express the frequency of an event. The term has an archaic sound and may be found in poetry or historical texts.

Synonyms

three times, tri-fold, triple.

Examples of usage

  • He knocked thrice before entering.
  • She had read the book thrice.
  • The spell must be recited thrice for it to work.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Shakespeare frequently used 'thrice' in his plays, adding a dramatic sense of repetition.
  • In 'Macbeth', the phrase 'thrice to thine and thrice to mine' illustrates a sense of overwhelming insistence.
  • Classic fairytales often use 'thrice' to highlight magical occurrences or tasks, adding rhythm to the story.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, the number three symbolizes perfection or completeness, making 'thrice' feel very impactful.
  • Folklore often features three wishes or tasks, hence the use of 'thrice' to mark the importance of repetition.
  • Religious texts sometimes emphasize actions done thrice, such as 'Holy, Holy, Holy', to indicate solemnity and reverence.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'thrice' can be a humorous or poetic way to express something intense in modern songs and literature.
  • In some video games, players might complete a challenge thrice to access a secret level or reward, showing the word's playful use.
  • Movies and TV shows often use 'thrice' for comedic effect, emphasizing a character's compulsive behavior or a dramatic twist.

Origin of 'thrice'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'thrice' comes from Old English 'รพrice', meaning 'three times'.
  • It has been used in English since at least the 14th century, often in poetry and literature.
  • Related words, like 'twice' (meaning two times), share the same root in the number-focused word family.

The term 'thrice' originates from the Old English word 'รพrice', which is derived from the Proto-Germanic root '*รพrฤซz', meaning three. This word is a combination of the number three and the suffix used to denote frequency or repetition. Over time, 'thrice' has maintained its meaning but has fallen out of common usage in modern English, where 'three times' is preferred. The use of 'thrice' can often be found in the works of Shakespeare and in various historical texts, where its rhythmic quality aligns well with the poetic structure. Its usage today is largely confined to literary contexts, making it a relic of earlier forms of English.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,871, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.