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

National Geographic recommends using a tripod for stability, a lower shutter speed, a wide-angle lens and night mode, if using an iPhone. Key Background Northern lights visibility hit a 500-year peak this year, NASA said, because solar activity has exceeded scientists’ expectations. —Conor Murray, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024

For crystal-clear shots, try using a tripod or something to support your phone. —George Monastiriakos, Newsweek, 30 Dec. 2024

Using a tripod can help to stabilize things but does introduce other problems. —Matt Morris, Space.com, 27 Dec. 2024

Every year since 1903, locals have placed a wooden tripod in the center of the frozen Tanana River. —Corey Buhay, Outside Online, 7 Nov. 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