trefoil

• Substantiv, das eine Pflanze mit dreizähligen Blättern bezeichnet, z. B. aus den Gattungen Medicago (Schneckenklee) oder Trifolium (Klee), oder ein architektonisches Ornament aus drei kreisförmig angeordneten Bögen.

A noun referring to a plant with trifoliate leaves, such as those from the genera Medicago or Trifolium, or an architectural ornament consisting of three arcs arranged in a circle.

1. Herb of the genus MedicagoC1formalscientific

   Any of several Old World herbs belonging to the genus Medicago, characterized by small flowers and compound leaves with three leaflets.

   Schneckenklee

   • The farmer identified the trefoil growing in the meadow as a type of Medicago.
   • Trefoil plants are often used as fodder for livestock.
   • The leaves of this trefoil are distinctly trifoliate.

   Synonymemedick

2. Plant of the genus TrifoliumB2formalscientific

   A plant belonging to the genus Trifolium, commonly known as clover, with trifoliate leaves.

   Klee

   • The field was covered in white trefoil, a type of clover.
   • Bees are attracted to the nectar of trefoil flowers.
   • Trefoil is a common sight in pastures and lawns.

   Synonymeclover

3. Architectural ornamentC1formalart

   An ornamental design in architecture consisting of three arcs arranged in a circular pattern, resembling a three-lobed leaf.

   Dreipass

   • The Gothic cathedral featured a trefoil pattern in its stained glass window.
   • The stone carver skillfully chiseled a trefoil into the archway.
   • Trefoil ornaments are common in medieval church architecture.