How Do You Spell TRIPOS?

Pronunciation: [tɹˈa͡ɪpə͡ʊz] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "tripos" might seem confusing due to the silent "s" at the end. However, it is actually pronounced as "TRY-pohss" with a long "o" sound. The word originates from the Cambridge University honors examination, also known as the Mathematical Tripos. It historically consisted of three parts or "orders," hence the prefix "trip-" which means "three." Although the examination has evolved since its inception, the term Tripos is still used to refer to the final exams in various subjects.

TRIPOS Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "tripos" refers to several different meanings based on the context in which it is used. Originating from the University of Cambridge, it initially denoted a traditional undergraduate degree examination, as well as the ceremony associated with its announcement. The tripos was historically divided into three distinct parts or sections, hence the name "tripos," from the Greek word for "three-fold". Each part encompassed a different field of study, such as mathematics, classics, or natural sciences.

    Additionally, the term "tripos" has been used to describe the overall academic performance of a student during their undergraduate career at Cambridge. It represents the final honors classification received by the student upon completing their degree. For instance, a student who achieves a first-class honours degree may be said to have "been placed in the First Class of the tripos."

    Furthermore, "tripos" can also refer to the wooden structure upon which the examiners sat during the oral examinations (often referred to as "vivas") conducted as part of the degree examination process at Cambridge. This structure, known as the "tripos chair," typically has arms and a canopy shaped like a half-dome, providing a distinctive appearance that symbolizes the academic tradition associated with the university.

    Overall, "tripos" encompasses various meanings, including the traditional degree examination, the resulting honors classification, and the wooden chair used during oral examinations at the University of Cambridge.

  2. At Cambridge University, one of the honour-lists with its three classes-the triposes now embrace mathematics, classics, law, theology, &c.; he whose name appears in the tripospaper.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for TRIPOS

Etymology of TRIPOS

The word "tripos" has its origins in the University of Cambridge in England. It comes from the Latin word "tripus", which means a three-legged stool or tripod. In the context of Cambridge University, it was used to refer to a three-legged stool that was used as a seat for the final examination. Eventually, the term "tripos" came to signify the examination itself and the academic subjects that were examined. It is worth noting that in the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Cambridge undergraduate degree examinations were known as the "tripos". Nowadays, the word "tripos" is mostly used to refer to historical or traditional contexts within the university.

Similar spelling words for TRIPOS

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