Dictionary

trefoil

noun tre·foil \ˈtrē-ˌfi(-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
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Illustration of TREFOIL

Origin of TREFOIL

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin trifolium, from tri- + folium leaf — more at blade
First Known Use: 15th century

Other Seed Plant Terms

aubergine, box, bramble, briar, composite, perpetual, pulse
TREFOIL Defined for Kids

trefoil

noun tre·foil \ˈtrē-ˌfil\

Definition of TREFOIL for Kids

1
:  a clover or related plant having leaves with three leaflets
2
:  a fancy design with three leaflike parts
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