threepronged

Threepronged, commonly written as three-pronged or threepronged, is a descriptive term used to indicate that an object has three prongs, tines, or branches. It is widely used across fields such as hardware, culinary tools, and graphic design, and can also function as a proper noun in brand names or product lines.

In electrical contexts, three-pronged refers to a connector or outlet with three contact points: typically two current-carrying conductors and a grounding conductor. In North American electrical standards, a standard three-pronged plug includes two flat blades and a round grounding pin. The term is contrasted with two-pronged (ungrounded) configurations.

In other domains, three-pronged forms appear in utensils such as a three-pronged fork, or in logos and heraldry where a symbol comprises three extending prongs. The trident is the most common three-pronged symbol in mythology and art, associated with gods such as Poseidon (Neptune) and the Hindu deity Shiva (trishula).

Branding usage varies: some companies choose "ThreePronged" or "threepronged" as a brand name or logo descriptor, exploiting the idea of triadic strength or multifunctionality.

Etymology and orthography: the term derives from three + pronged; hyphenation is common but not universal. Variants include three-pronged, tri-pronged, or solid forms like threepronged in branding.