three-year
UK: ˌθriː ˈjɪər | US: ˌθriː ˈjɪr
adj. lasting for or relating to a period of three years
The compound "three-year" combines the Old English word "þrīe" (three) and "ġēar" (year), both of Germanic origin. The hyphenated form emerged in Modern English to create a clear adjectival phrase describing duration. Unlike Latin-based numerical prefixes (e.g., triennial), this Germanic construction maintains transparency by literally combining the number and time unit.
The university offers a three-year degree program in humanities.
She signed a three-year contract with the publishing company.
The tree’s three-year growth cycle was documented by botanists.
Their three-year partnership resulted in groundbreaking research.
The warranty covers repairs for the first three-year period.