Definition

Adjective: Being three in one; consisting of three in unity. Used especially in theological contexts to describe the Christian Trinity—the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as one God.

Usage and Examples

The word "triune" is a specialized adjective used almost exclusively to describe a threefold unity, particularly in religious doctrine. * The doctrine describes a triune Godhead. * The concept of a triune deity is central to many Christian creeds. * Theologians have debated the nature of the triune God for centuries.

Advanced Usage

• Philosophical/Abstract Use: While rare, "triune" can be applied metaphorically to describe any complex entity understood as a unity of three distinct aspects or principles.
  • The artist described her creative process as a triune interplay of intuition, skill, and discipline.

Variants and Related Words

• Trinity (n): The central Christian doctrine of the triune God; a group of three people or things.
• Triunity (n): The state of being triune; threefold unity.
• Tripartite (adj): Consisting of three parts. (Note: This is a more general secular term and does not imply the inseparable unity of "triune".)

Synonyms

• Threefold
• Trinal (archaic)
• Three-in-one

Antonyms

• Simple
• Single
• Unified (in the sense of being a single, undifferentiated entity)

Adjective

1. being three in one; used especially of the Christian Trinity
   • a triune God