A trident is a three-pronged spear that looks like a giant fork. The name comes from Latin words meaning “three teeth,” which perfectly describes its three sharp points spreading out from a single handle.

Tridents appear throughout history and mythology. In ancient Rome, gladiators called reticarii fought with tridents and nets. Greek mythology features Poseidon, god of the sea, carrying a trident as his symbol of power over the oceans. When you see pictures of Poseidon or his Roman equivalent Neptune, that distinctive three-pointed spear is always with him.

Real fishermen in many cultures have used tridents for thousands of years to spear fish in shallow water. The three prongs make it easier to catch fish than a single-pointed spear would, since you don't have to aim quite as precisely. Today, you might see recreational divers using small tridents for spearfishing.

The word has become symbolic too. Several countries use tridents on their flags or emblems. When something is described as trident-shaped, it means it has three prongs or points branching out, like the letter E tipped on its side.