Definition

A substance that can exist in three different crystal structures or forms.

Example

The mineral can be found as a trimorph, showing three distinct crystal shapes.

Conversation

I just read about how some minerals can be a trimorph in nature.

Really? What does that mean exactly?

It means they can exist in three different crystalline forms.

That’s fascinating! I had no idea minerals could be so versatile.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Trimorph is formed from 'tri-' (meaning three) and 'morph' (from Greek 'morphe', meaning form or shape). The word describes something that has three forms or shapes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tri-' meaning three and 'morph' meaning form — this helps you remember that trimorph refers to something that has three different forms.

Visually Confused Words