tern
nounUK /tɜːn/
US /tɝːn/
A tern is a slim seabird with long pointed wings that flies over the ocean.
We watched a tern dive into the waves to catch a fish.
SYNONYMS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A set of three things or a group of three.
The lottery winner picked a tern of lucky numbers.
3. In mathematics, a sequence or arrangement of three elements.
The puzzle asked for a tern of matching cards.
4. A small, graceful swallow-like bird found near coasts and marshes.
The little tern nested on the sandy beach.