What does trident mean?
A trident is a spear or similar weapon with three prongs. In classical mythology, it is the characteristic weapon of Poseidon in Greek mythology and Neptune in Roman mythology, making it a familiar symbol of the sea, maritime power, and destructive force. The word can also refer literally to three-pronged implements used for fishing or fighting, although such uses are less common in everyday speech. In modern writing, “trident” often appears in descriptions of ancient sculpture, mythological scenes, branding, or figurative imagery. Its distinctive three-pointed form has also given rise to related adjectives describing three-pronged or similarly shaped structures. A trident combines the ordinary meaning of a pointed weapon with the commanding cultural associations of a god who controls waves and storms.
nounA three-pronged spear or similar weapon, especially the weapon traditionally carried by the sea god Poseidon or Neptune.
- A three-pronged spear, harpoon, or similar weapon.
- The symbolic weapon of the sea god Poseidon or Neptune, and a conventional emblem of sea power.
"In the legend, Poseidon raised his trident and caused the sea to swell with furious waves."
"The sculpture in the fountain depicts Poseidon wielding a trident."
"A trident is also an effective tool for spearing fish in shallow water."
The plural is used when referring to multiple weapons, implements, or mythological representations of tridents.
"The frieze depicts warriors carrying tridents."
Poseidon's three-pronged trident made the god of the sea one of mythology's most recognizable figures.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of trident
The word comes from Latin tridens, literally “three-toothed,” formed from tri- meaning “three” and dens meaning “tooth” or “prong.” English borrowed the word in the 16th century, initially for a three-pronged spear or weapon. Its mythological association developed through the traditional weapons of Poseidon and Neptune, and related English words such as “tridentate,” “tridentiform,” and “tridentine” continue to reflect the same three-pronged or three-toothed image.
How trident is actually used
The word is relatively uncommon in ordinary modern speech and is most familiar from mythology, literature, heraldry, and references to the weapon of Poseidon or Neptune.