A trefoil is a graphic form composed of the outline of three overlapping rings, used in architecture and Christian symbolism, among other areas. The term is also applied to other symbols with a threefold shape. A similar shape with four rings is called a quatrefoil.

What does a trefoil symbolize?

A trefoil is commonly thought of as a symbol of three intersecting circles, such as the bio-hazard symbol. The trefoil comes from the Latin trifolium, meaning 'three-leaved plant'. ... The symbolism of three fits with Christian imagery associated with the Trinity: the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

What is trefoil in chemistry definition?

It is a molecular trefoil, constructed by joining 15 pyrrole units together into a ring with appropriate linkers and in effect tying a knot in that ring. ... The trefoil knot is a most interesting object in a branch of mathematics called knot theory, and it is also related to another fascinating object, the Möbius band.