It's a prefix that indicates "three" or "three times" and is used in many English words, like:
* Triangle: Three angles
* Tricycle: Three wheels
* Tripod: Three legs
* Trilogy: A set of three related works
* Triathlon: An athletic contest consisting of three events
So, next time you see the prefix "tri," remember it signifies "three" and you'll be able to decipher the meaning of the word!