triangular

adjective

tri·​an·​gu·​lar trī-ˈaŋ-gyə-lər How to pronounce triangular (audio)
1
a
: of, relating to, or having the form of a triangle
a triangular plot of land
b
: having a triangular base or principal surface
a triangular table
a triangular pyramid
2
a(1)
: of, relating to, or involving three elements
a triangular agreement
(2)
of a military group : based primarily on three units
b
: of or relating to a love triangle
triangularity noun
triangularly adverb

Examples of triangular in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
When compared to other free-hanging wilderness shelters, there are lighter hammock systems out there, but unlike the typical two-point setup of a hammock, each Tentstile tent uses a triangular three-strap setup to create a flatter, stabler floor. New Atlas, 25 Mar. 2026 In America, scones are usually triangular, err on the crumbly and dense side, are loaded with mix-ins, and may be savory or sweet. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Feb. 2026 During wildlife surveys in 2022 and 2023 in eastern Thailand, a research team came across a small, nocturnal gecko with a triangular head and large, slightly protruding eyes. Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 25 Feb. 2026 New At just over 7 inches long, this gecko is compact, with a triangular head and large, slightly protruding brown eyes. Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 25 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for triangular

Word History

Etymology

Middle English trianguler, from Late Latin triangularis, from Latin triangulum

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of triangular was in the 14th century

Cite this Entry

“Triangular.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/triangular. Accessed 29 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

triangular

adjective
tri·​an·​gu·​lar trī-ˈaŋ-gyə-lər How to pronounce triangular (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or having the form of a triangle
2
: having a triangular base or principal surface
a triangular pyramid

Medical Definition

triangular

noun
tri·​an·​gu·​lar trī-ˈaŋ-gyə-lər How to pronounce triangular (audio)

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