Triad: meaning, definitions and examples

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triad

[ˈtraɪæd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

music

A group of three notes played or sung together to form a chord.

Synonyms

chord, three-note chord, trio.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
triad	Same as the earlier entry, indicating a common way to name a chord consisting of three notes in music theory. The minor triad gives a sadder feeling to the song. She built the harmony using different types of triads.
chord	More general usage in music to describe any harmonic set of notes played simultaneously, not limited to just three notes. Applicable in a variety of musical styles and contexts. He played a C major chord on the piano. The guitarist strummed a complex chord progression.
three-note chord	Specifically refers to a chord consisting of exactly three notes. It's a straightforward term often used in teaching or when it's important to specify the number of notes in a chord. Begin with a simple three-note chord to get the harmony right. The song's intro features a three-note chord.
trio	Usually refers to a group of three musicians or singers performing together. Can sometimes relate to any group or set of three items or people. The jazz trio performed beautifully last night. She joined a vocal trio for the concert.

Examples of usage

The triad in the final cadence created a sense of resolution.
She played a beautiful triad on the piano.
The harmony was enriched by the use of triads.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

society

A group of three powerful people or countries working together to achieve a common goal.

Synonyms

coalition, trio, triumvirate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
triad	Usually used to describe a group of three related things or people, often in a neutral or slightly technical context. The musical piece was based on a triad of notes. These three elements form a powerful triad for success.
trio	Commonly used to describe a group of three, often people or performers, in a casual or artistic context. The jazz trio played an amazing set last night. They make a great trio of friends who always support each other.
coalition	Best suited for describing an alliance of groups, often in a political or organizational context. The environmental coalition is working to reduce carbon emissions. Several parties formed a coalition to pass the new law.
triumvirate	Suitable for describing a powerful group of three leaders or officials, often in a historical or formal context. The ancient Roman triumvirate was a political alliance of three rulers. The company's triumvirate of executives made the final decision.

Examples of usage

The political triad successfully passed the new legislation.
The triad of companies collaborated on the project.
The triad of leaders negotiated a peace agreement.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'triad' comes from the Latin 'triada' and Greek 'triás,' meaning 'three' or a group of three.
Many languages around the world have words derived from their roots that also mean 'three', showing the importance of this number in various cultures.

Music

In music theory, a triad is a set of three notes that can be played together; these notes usually form a chord.
Triads are fundamental in constructing harmonies in Western music, often building the basis for songs and compositions.

Cultural Significance

In various cultures, groups of three are seen as powerful, such as the 'Holy Trinity' in Christianity, which emphasizes unity and strength.
The saying 'third time's a charm' highlights the significance of three opportunities to succeed.

Psychology

Research suggests that people tend to remember items in groups of three better than in other quantities, tapping into our cognitive preference for patterns.
In persuasion and argument, presenting three points can make an idea more convincing, utilizing the power of the triad.

Literature

Many stories and myths feature triads, like the 'Three Musketeers' or fairy tale characters like 'Goldilocks' with three bears, showing that three is a powerful narrative structure.
Triadic structures in poetry and prose often create rhythm and balance, enhancing the emotional impact of the text.

Translations

Translations of the word "triad" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tríade

🇮🇳 त्रय

🇩🇪 Triade

🇮🇩 triad

🇺🇦 тріада

🇵🇱 triada

🇯🇵 三位一体 (さんみいったい)

🇫🇷 triade

🇪🇸 tríada

🇹🇷 triad

🇰🇷 삼합 (삼합)

🇸🇦 ثلاثية

🇨🇿 triáda

🇸🇰 triáda

🇨🇳 三合会 (sānhéhuì)

🇸🇮 triada

🇮🇸 þríeining

🇰🇿 триада

🇬🇪 ტრიო

🇦🇿 triada

🇲🇽 tríada

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,116, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
16113 candidacy
16114 transitive
16115 incomparable
16116 triad
16117 spawn
16118 pharmaceuticals
16119 matrimonial
...