THIRD Meaning and
Definition
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"Third" is an adjective and noun that indicates the numerical position in a series or sequence that follows the number two and precedes the number four. As an adjective, it describes something that occurs at the number three position, which can be either a reference to a specific item or a general concept. As a noun, it represents the name or label given to the number three in counting or numbering systems.
In terms of order, "third" often pertains to the middle position among three items or parts, with two preceding and one following it. For instance, in a sequence of playing cards, the third card would be the one that comes after the second but before the fourth. Similarly, when ranking sports teams, the third team would be the one that follows the second-place team but precedes the fourth-place team.
Besides its numerical connotation, "third" is also used in the context of a fraction, representing one part out of three equal divisions. In music, "third" denotes a specific interval between two notes, where one note is two whole steps or four half steps higher than the other. Moreover, the term "third" can be employed in conversation or writing to describe the third occurrence or instance of a particular event, action, or situation.
Overall, "third" is a versatile word used to identify the number or position that follows two and comes before four in a series, as well as to describe items, concepts, or occurrences related to this numerical order.
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That one of a series between the second and the fourth.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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• One part of three; the 1-60th part of second; in music, an interval containing three notes of the scale, the first and third being only sounded.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for THIRD *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for THIRD
Etymology of THIRD
The word "third" originated from the Old English word "þridda", which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*þridjas". This Proto-Germanic root is related to the number three, indicating its position or order in a series. The word "third" has remained relatively unchanged in its meaning and pronunciation throughout its history.
Idioms with the word THIRD
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come/be a poor second, third, etc.
The idiom "come/be a poor second, third, etc." refers to being significantly less successful, desirable, or effective compared to someone or something else. It implies being in a position of lesser importance, skill, or value in relation to others.
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the third degree
The idiom "the third degree" refers to an intense and persistent interrogation or questioning, usually done by the police, in order to obtain information or a confession. It can also imply a thorough and relentless investigation or scrutiny of a person or situation.
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third time's the charm
The phrase "third time's the charm" is an idiomatic expression that suggests that after two unsuccessful attempts, the third attempt will be successful. It implies that the third try is more likely to be lucky or bring favorable results. This idiomatic phrase is often used to encourage perseverance and optimism when facing setbacks or failures.
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go down for the third time
The idiom "go down for the third time" is a figurative expression that is derived from the literal drowning of a person. It refers to a situation where someone is struggling or failing repeatedly, much like a person who is unable to stay afloat after going underwater multiple times. It suggests that the individual is experiencing extreme difficulty or is on the verge of giving up due to continuous setbacks or failures.
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third time’s a charm
The idiom "third time's a charm" means that after two failed attempts, the third attempt is expected to be successful or lucky. It implies that success is more likely to be achieved on the third try.
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third time lucky
The idiom "third time lucky" refers to the belief or hope that something will be successful on the third attempt after two previous attempts have been unsuccessful.
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third time is the charm
The phrase "third time is the charm" is an idiomatic expression typically used to convey the belief or hope that success will be achieved on the third attempt after previous failures or unsuccessful tries. It suggests that the third effort or opportunity is more likely to be successful compared to previous attempts.
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third time's a charm
The idiom "third time's a charm" means that after two previous attempts or failures, the third attempt is more likely to be successful. It suggests that success and luck are often associated with making multiple attempts, and the third try is considered the most promising.
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get the third degree
The idiom "get the third degree" typically means to be subjected to intense questioning or interrogation, often characterized by aggressive or relentless tactics. It implies that someone is being grilled extensively or systematically in order to extract information or uncover the truth about a particular matter.
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give (someone) the third degree
The idiom "give (someone) the third degree" means to interrogate or question someone extensively and rigorously, often to extract information or get to the bottom of a matter. It implies being subjected to intense scrutiny and persistent questioning similar to a formal police interrogation.
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third rail
The idiom "third rail" refers to a sensitive or controversial topic that is potentially dangerous to touch or discuss, just like the electrified third rail in a subway system. It is often used to describe issues or subjects that are considered too risky or taboo to approach due to potential negative consequences or backlash.
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be a poor third
The idiom "be a poor third" typically means to be in last or inferior position among a group of three competitors or options. It suggests being significantly less successful, desirable, or significant compared to the leading two choices or individuals.
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third wheel or fifth wheel
The idiom "third wheel" or "fifth wheel" refers to a person who feels left out or excluded because they are with a couple or a group where they do not have a significant role or purpose. It typically describes someone who is unwanted or unnecessary in a particular situation, making them feel like an extra or an intruder.
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a fifth/third wheel
The idiom "a fifth wheel" or "a third wheel" is used to describe a person who is unnecessary or superfluous to a situation or group of individuals. It refers to someone who feels left out or excluded, as if they are an extra and unneeded addition to an already established group of people.
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a third wheel
The idiom "a third wheel" refers to a person who is present in a social situation but is unnecessary, unwanted, or feels left out. It originated from the concept of a tricycle, which typically has two main wheels for balance and a smaller third wheel for support. In social settings where there are two people interacting closely, a third person can feel like they are disrupting the dynamic or being excluded, making them a third wheel.
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second, third, etc. hand
The idiom "second, third, etc. hand" refers to something that is not directly or personally witnessed or experienced, but rather heard from someone else who heard it from another source. It suggests information that is passed along through several intermediaries.
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*third degree
To interrogate or question someone intensely or persistently, often in a harsh or threatening manner.
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be/come a poor second, third, etc.
The idiom "be/come a poor second, third, etc." means to be clearly inferior or less impressive than someone or something else in a specific context or situation.
Similar spelling words for THIRD
- thorite,
- thirty,
- Threet,
- three-d,
- threat,
- thread,
- thereto,
- theriot,
- thready,
- thyroid,
- throat,
- threatt,
- throaty.
