from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Tripod \Tri"pod\, n. [L. tripus, -odis, Gr. ?; ? (see {Tri-}) +
?, ?, foot. See {Foot}, and cf. {Tripos}, {Trivet}.]
1. Any utensil or vessel, as a stool, table, altar, caldron,
etc., supported on three feet.
[1913 Webster]
Note: On such, a stool, in the temple of Apollo at Delphi,
the Pythian priestess sat while giving responses to
those consulting the Delphic oracle.
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2. A three-legged frame or stand, usually jointed at top, for
supporting a theodolite, compass, telescope, camera, or
other instrument.
[1913 Webster]
{Tripod of life}, or {Vital tripod} (Physiol.), the three
organs, the heart, lungs, and brain; -- so called because
their united action is necessary to the maintenance of
life.
[1913 Webster]