trio

noun

ˈtrē-(ˌ)ō 

plural trios

1

a

: a musical composition for three voice parts or three instruments

b

: the secondary or episodic division of a minuet or scherzo, a march, or of various dance forms

2

: the performers of a musical or dance trio

3

: a group or set of three

Synonyms of trio

• triad
• trinity
• trilogy
• triumvirate
• triplet

Examples of trio in a Sentence

He plays in a jazz trio.

the band was just a trio of musicians on piano, drums, and saxophone

Recent Examples on the Web

The trio have joined the film, which comes from the team behind stoner cult comedy Grandma’s Boy with Swardson and Allen Covert writing the script and Joel David Moore directing. — Peter White, Deadline, 17 July 2026

Colorado trio Prairiewolf operates in both these realms, creating limpid yet propulsive instrumental music that faces the stars while remaining focused on doings on the ground. — Reed Jackson, SPIN, 17 July 2026

With Alcántara, Perez and Meyer, the Marlins boast a formidable trio. — Will Sammon, New York Times, 17 July 2026

The Mets used a stellar start by Scott and a trio of homers to win the series opener against the Phillies 4-1. — Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 17 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

French, from Italian from tri- (from Latin)

First Known Use

circa 1724, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for trio

• beau
• beaut
• beaux
• blow
• bro
• coe
• crow
• doe
• doh
• dough
• eau
• eaux

Kids Definition

trio

noun

ˈtrē-ō 

plural trios

1

a

: a musical composition for three voices or instruments

b

: the performers of a musical trio

2

: a group or set of three