triangulate
triangulate Lexical Profile
triangulate Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To divide an area into triangles for surveying purposes, or to determine the exact location, distance, or height of a point by measuring angles to it from known reference points.
"Rescue teams used signals from three nearby cellular towers to triangulate the lost hiker's position."
To validate research findings or establish a reliable conclusion by comparing multiple independent data sources, methods, or perspectives.
"The sociologists sought to triangulate their interview data with historical census records and economic statistics."
To position oneself politically between opposing parties or ideologies in order to appeal to a broader electorate.
"The candidate attempted to triangulate on fiscal policy by adopting moderate elements from both major parties."
To bring a third party into a conflict or relationship between two people in order to deflect tension, manipulate dynamics, or gain support (in psychology).
"The family therapist noticed that the parents tended to triangulate their oldest child whenever they disagreed."
• adjective
Composed of, marked with, or shaped like triangles (used especially in botany and zoology).
"The entomologist identified the beetle species by the distinctive triangulate markings along its wing covers."
Word Nuance & Usage
As a verb, 'triangulate' is pronounced with a long 'a' in the final syllable (/traɪˈæŋɡjʊleɪt/), whereas the rarer botanical and technical adjective sense is typically pronounced with a reduced vowel (/traɪˈæŋɡjʊlət/).
• Rhymes for triangulate
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the early 17th century from Late Latin triangulatus ('three-cornered'), from Latin triangulum ('triangle'), formed from tri- ('three') and angulus ('angle' or 'corner'). The राजनीतिक sense of positioning oneself between opposing camps was popularized in the mid-1990s during the presidency of Bill Clinton.