Lesson of the Day: Word usage: Troika

Ran across the word “troika” in a tech article today. Within the context of the paragraph, I understood the meaning. But in all honestly, I’d never seen it applied in general consumer literature.

Excerpt:

“a widget platform for watching and sharing documentary films that’s being headed up by a troika of ex-AOL executives (Ted Leonsis, Steve Case, Miles Gilburne), did not escape widespread (and warm) notice.”

From M-W.com

Etymology: Russian troĭka, from troe three; akin to Old English thrīe three
Date: 1842

1: a Russian vehicle drawn by three horses abreast  ; also : a team for such a vehicle2: a group of three ; especially : an administrative or ruling body of three

So in essence, it’s a trendy way of saying triumvirate or threesome. Apparently, Troika is a relatively popular title to various indie films, shorts and movies, including, as one would expect, a “threesome” adult film. Quite a few U.S. and international companies have also adapted the noun into their corporate names.

I can’t help but imagine saying it with a bad Russian accent.