threefold

adjective

three·​fold ˈthrē-ˌfōld How to pronounce threefold (audio) -ˈfōld How to pronounce threefold (audio)
Synonyms of threefoldnext
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 How to pronounce threefold (audio)
adverb

Synonyms of threefold

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Examples of threefold in a Sentence

a threefold approach to solving the problem
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.
The International Energy Agency estimated in 2022 that demand for rare earths could increase at least threefold by 2040. — ABC News, 20 Aug. 2026 During the last three years, an average of 270 orbital rockets have launched from Earth, a more than threefold increase from only a decade ago. — Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 17 Aug. 2026 Over 1,300 such hearings were held in June alone, a nearly threefold jump from the same period in 2025, according to data analyzed by Mobile Pathways, a nonprofit that tracks immigration court data. — Christopher Cann, USA Today, 16 Aug. 2026 The lineup marks a threefold jump from last year’s single recipient, and together the films span 13 countries, including Korea, across majority and minority production roles. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for threefold

Word History

First Known Use

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

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

Rhymes for threefold

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Browse Nearby Words

three-field system
threefold
threefold purchase
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Cite this Entry

“Threefold.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/threefold. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

threefold

adjective
three·​fold ˈthrē-ˌfōld How to pronounce threefold (audio)
-ˈfōld
1
: having three parts or members
2
: being three times as great or as many
threefold adverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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