Dictionary
trefoil
noun tre·foil \ˈtrē-ˌfȯi(-ə)l, ˈtre-\
: a plant (such as a clover) that has three leaves on each stem
: a decorative object or design that is shaped like a leaf with three parts
Full Definition of TREFOIL
1
a : clover 1; broadly : any of several leguminous herbs (as bird's-foot trefoil) with leaves that have or appear to have three leaflets b : a trifoliolate leaf
2
: an ornament or symbol in the form of a stylized trifoliolate leaf
See trefoil defined for English-language learners
See trefoil defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of TREFOIL
Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin trifolium, from tri- + folium leaf — more at blade
First Known Use: 15th century
TREFOIL Defined for Kids
trefoil
noun tre·foil \ˈtrē-ˌfȯil\
Definition of TREFOIL for Kids
1
: a clover or related plant having leaves with three leaflets
2
: a fancy design with three leaflike parts
Learn More About TREFOIL
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up trefoil? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).