three

noun

1
: a number that is one more than 2 see Table of Numbers
2
: the third in a set or series
the three of hearts
3
a
: something having three units or members
three adjective
three pronoun, plural in construction

Examples of three in a Sentence

“What time is it?” “It's three.” I leave each day at three.
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.
In fact, Durant has averaged at least 25 points per game while shooting 50 percent or better from the field and 40 percent or better on threes in three straight regular seasons for the longest such streak in NBA history, according to ESPN research. Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 15 June 2025 He was asked to be a defender and contest Turner’s threes, starting in the corner. Tony East, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025 The overabundance of threes creates a stylistic problem for the NBA, said Curry. Alex Sherman, CNBC, 5 June 2025 Then came the heat check: back-to-back threes that only added to her fire. Anthony De Leon, Los Angeles Times, 26 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for three

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from three, adjective, from Old English thrīe (masculine), thrēo (feminine & neuter); akin to Old High German drī three, Latin tres, Greek treis

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of three was before the 12th century

Cite this Entry

“Three.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/three. Accessed 25 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

three

noun
1
: a number that is one more than 2 see number
2
: the third in a set or series
the three of hearts
3
a
: something having three units or members
three adjective or pronoun

More from Merriam-Webster on three

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