tripod

noun

tri·​pod ˈtrī-ˌpäd 

1

: a three-legged stand (as for a camera)

2

: a stool, table, or altar with three legs

3

: a vessel (such as a cauldron) resting on three legs

tripod adjective

or tripodal

ˈtri-pə-dᵊl 

ˈtrī-ˌpä-

Examples of tripod in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Experts also suggest using a tripod because cameras need to be well stabilized to take a picture with long exposure. —Tanya Wildt, Detroit Free Press, 11 Oct. 2024

At the end point music blasted and cameras with telephoto lenses on tripods aimed down the finish line below porches with colorful flower boxes. —Tom Mullen, Forbes, 8 Sep. 2024

To take meteor photos with your phone, a tripod is your best friend. —Maya Silver, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Aug. 2024

Use a basic smartphone holder and a small tripod to prevent any camera shake, keeping your images sharp. —Jamie Carter, Forbes, 27 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin tripod-, tripus, from Greek tripod-, tripous, from tripod-, tripous, adjective, three-footed, from tri- + pod-, pous foot — more at foot

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Kids Definition

tripod

noun

tri·​pod ˈtrī-ˌpäd 

1

: something (as a container or stool) resting on three legs

2

: a three-legged stand (as for a camera)

Medical Definition

tripod

noun

tri·​pod ˈtrī-ˌpäd 

: a bone having three processes