tripod

noun

tri·​pod ˈtrī-ˌpäd How to pronounce tripod (audio)
1
: a three-legged stand (as for a camera)
2
: a stool, table, or altar with three legs
3
: a vessel (such as a cauldron) resting on three legs
tripod adjective
or tripodal
ˈtri-pə-dᵊl How to pronounce tripod (audio)
ˈtrī-ˌpä-

Examples of tripod 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.
All of these are captured using his Nikon Z8 and 100-400mm lens, usually set on a sturdy tripod with a fluid head. — Patrick Connolly Orlando Sentinel, Arkansas Online, 2 Aug. 2026 If applicable, photos can be taken with low apertures, wide-angle lenses and tripods. — Antonio Pequeño Iv, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 He is accused of damaging CBS News Chicago's team's camera, lights and tripod, and of helping Twist smash the windshield of the news van with a cone. — Todd Feurer, CBS News, 31 July 2026 The Vlog Combo comes with a new DJI Mic Mini 2 wireless mic, a clip-on fill light, a mini tripod, and a carrying bag. — Will Greenwald, PC Magazine, 30 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for tripod

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin tripod-, tripus, from Greek tripod-, tripous, from tripod-, tripous, adjective, three-footed, from tri- + pod-, pous foot — more at foot

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of tripod was in the 15th century

Rhymes for tripod

See All Rhymes for tripod

Browse Nearby Words

triply
tripod
tripodic walk
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tripod.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tripod. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

tripod

noun
tri·​pod ˈtrī-ˌpäd How to pronounce tripod (audio)
1
: something (as a container or stool) resting on three legs
2
: a three-legged stand (as for a camera)

Medical Definition

tripod

noun
tri·​pod ˈtrī-ˌpäd How to pronounce tripod (audio)
: a bone having three processes

More from Merriam-Webster on tripod

Nglish: Translation of tripod for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about tripod

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