threefold

adjective

three·​fold ˈthrē-ˌfōld  -ˈfōld 

1

: having three parts or members : triple

a threefold purpose

2

: being three times as great or as many

a threefold increase

threefold

ˈthrē-ˈfōld 

adverb

Synonyms

• triple

Examples of threefold in a Sentence

a threefold approach to solving the problem

Recent Examples on the Web

The paths for Iranian leaders are threefold: attempt to continue negotiations, seek to de-escalate the fighting with major concessions, possibly after a few demonstration attacks, or assume that negotiations with Trump and/or Netanyahu are fruitless and go all in on military retaliation. —Michael Lynch, Forbes.com, 22 June 2025

Today, the flames are only faintly visible near the crater as the fires have been reduced threefold. —Joe Salas june 08, New Atlas, 8 June 2025

Here’s a closer look at the threefold meaning of InnSaei: The sea within conjures up the borderless nature of our inner world. —Hrund Gunnsteinsdottir, CNBC, 23 May 2025

Alyssa Farah Griffin said the criminal justice system should follow a threefold approach: punishment, crime deterrence and rehabilitation. —Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for threefold

• ahold
• behold
• billfold
• blindfold
• cajoled
• consoled
• controlled
• cotswold
• eightfold
• enfold
• enrolled
• extolled

Kids Definition

threefold

adjective

three·​fold ˈthrē-ˌfōld 

-ˈfōld

1

: having three parts or members

2

: being three times as great or as many

threefold adverb