triptych
/ˈtrɪp.tɪk/ IELTSAcademic
noun
- 1.
A work of art made of three connected panels or sections. The three parts usually fit together as one piece.
- The museum displayed a medieval triptych.
- Her painting was designed as a triptych.
- 2.
More generally, something divided into three parts that belong together, especially in writing, photography, or design.
- The article is a triptych of memory, loss, and hope.
- The poster uses a triptych layout.
Adinary Nuance
A triptych is not just any set of three things. It suggests three parts that are meant to be seen together as one complete piece. Use it for art, design, or writing when the three parts feel linked and balanced.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- bức tranh ba tấm
- Spanish
- tríptico
- Chinese
- 三联画
- Japanese
- 三連画
- Korean
- 삼면화
Etymology
Triptych comes from Greek triptychos, meaning 'folded in three'. It entered English through Latin and French, first used for art in the early modern period.
Common phrases
a religious triptycha triptych of panelsa visual triptych
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is triptych used only for paintings?
- No. It can also describe designs, photos, and writing with three linked parts.
- What is the difference between a triptych and a trilogy?
- A triptych is usually a visual or artistic three-part work. A trilogy is usually a set of three books, films, or stories.
- Is triptych a common word?
- It is not common in everyday speech, but it is useful in art, literature, and academic writing.
- How do I use triptych in a sentence?
- Say 'a triptych of X' or 'a triptych made of three panels.'