trifecta

noun

tri·​fec·​ta trī-ˈfek-tə 

ˈtrī-ˌfek-

1

: triple sense 1b

achieved a show-business trifecta : a platinum record, hit TV series, and an Oscar

2

: a variation of the perfecta in which a bettor wins by selecting the first three finishers of a race in the correct order of finish

Did you know?

Where does trifecta come from?

Trifecta is a recent addition to the English language. It first appeared in the early 1970s as a term for a horse-racing bet in which the first, second, and third place finishers are chosen in the correct order.

The word has since broadened in meaning: it can now also refer to a group of three (usually desirable) things (such as “the trifecta of curing cancer, ending hunger, and putting an end to war"). It is found in everything from advertisements to media company names to casual speech.

Trifecta combines the prefix tri- (meaning “three”) with the last element in perfecta, a word of American Spanish origin that refers to a horse-racing bet in which the first- and second-place finishers are chosen correctly.

Synonyms

• threesome
• triad
• trinity
• trio
• triple
• triplet
• triumvirate

Examples of trifecta in a Sentence

that summertime trifecta for meteorologically induced misery: hazy, hot, and humid

Recent Examples on the Web

Mise En Place The dinner was designed by a trifecta of star proportions with Dalkin, of course, and reigning home brand giants, Crate & Barrel and Le Creuset. —Kristin L. Wolfe, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024

Democrats have held all statewide offices since 2019, with a trifecta of control over the state Legislature and governor’s mansion. —Julia Mueller, The Hill, 6 Nov. 2024

This year’s free agent pool features a trifecta of top-of-the-line starters in Corbin Burnes, Max Fried and, of course, Snell. —Justice Delos Santos, The Mercury News, 31 Oct. 2024

Arc'teryx Rho Merino Wool Zip-neck Base Layer Top $140 at REI This merino wool base layer is a trifecta of warmth, breathability, and moisture management in one naturally odor-resistant, sweat-wicking top. —Kristine Solomon, Travel + Leisure, 19 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

tri- + perfecta

First Known Use

1971, in the meaning defined at sense 2