Clues for the word "TERNARY"

We've had 2 crossword clues used for this word, and seen it 3 times in crosswords. It was last seen in Chicago Reader crossword on March 26, 2010.

Definition of ternary

a. - Proceeding by threes; consisting of three; as, the ternary number was anciently esteemed a symbol of perfection, and held in great veneration.
a. - Containing, or consisting of, three different parts, as elements, atoms, groups, or radicals, which are regarded as having different functions or relations in the molecule; thus, sodic hydroxide, NaOH, is a ternary compound.
n. - A ternion; the number three; three things taken together; a triad.