Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //ˌtraɪˈlɪn.i.ər//
KK: /trɪˈlaɪnɪər/
Definition
Connected to or involving three lines.
Example
In geometry, a trilinear coordinate system uses three lines to define points in a plane.
Conversation

Have you ever heard of trilinear coordinates in math?

Yeah, I think they relate to points on a plane, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how they connect three lines together.

Totally, it makes geometry so much more interesting!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
ternary
triangular
threefold
Antonyms
linear
unidimensional
monodimensional
Root Explanation
Trilinear is formed from "tri-" (meaning three) and "linear" (from Latin "linearis", meaning relating to lines). The word describes something that involves or relates to three lines.
Memory Tip
Think of 'three' ('tri-') lines ('linear') coming together — that's what trilinear means.
Visually Confused Words
patrilinear
matrilinear
bilinear
vertilinear
tricliniary
rectilinear
patrilineal
multilinear