trichotomize, v.
(trɪ-, traɪˈkɒtəmaɪz)
[f. as next + -ize: cf. dichotomize.]
trans. To divide into three parts; to arrange or classify in three divisions, or in groups of three. Also absol. Hence triˈchotomist2, one who trichotomizes or practises trichotomy.
| 1651 Fuller's Abel Rediv., Colet (1867) I. 121 The latter [sayings, etc.] he intended to trichotomize, or reduce unto ternaries. 1681 Baxter Councels Yng. Men Catal. *j, Shewing that Trinity in Unity is imprinted on the whole Creation, and that Trichotomising is the just distribution in Naturals and Morals. 1846 T. W. Jenkyn Baxter's Wks. Pref. Ess. 50. |