D defs.my
Entry 2 senses Webster, 1913

Tripod

/trīp'-ädˌ/ · Tri·pod · IPA /ˈtɹaɪpɑd/
01 n. Any utensil or vessel, as a stool, table, altar, caldron, etc., supported on three feet.
  1. 1.
    Any utensil or vessel, as a stool, table, altar, caldron, etc., supported on three feet.
  2. 2.
    A three-legged frame or stand, usually jointed at top, for supporting a theodolite, compass, telescope, camera, or other instrument.
Phrases & compounds
Tripod of life — the three organs, the heart, lungs, and brain; -- so called because their united action is necessary to the maintenance of life.