Denoting or comprised of three compounds, elements, molecules, etc. [L. ternarius, of three]
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ter·na·ry 'tər-nə-rē adj
1) having three elements, parts, or divisions
2 a) being or consisting of an alloy of three elements
b) of, relating to, or containing three different elements, atoms, radicals, or groups <a \ternary acid>
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ter·na·ry (turґnə-re) [L. ternarius] 1. third in order. 2. made up of three distinct chemical elements.Medical dictionary. 2011.