triumph

The word “triumph” means a great success or victory after overcoming difficulty. In plain terms, a major win or success, or the act of achieving one.

“Triumph” is pronounced TREYE-uhmf (/ˈtɹaɪ̯əmf/ in IPA).

Here is “triumph” used in a sentence: “Winning the championship was a personal triumph for the young athlete.”

Depending on how it is used, “triumph” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “triumph” comes from Ancient Greek. From Latin triumphus, "triumphal procession," ultimately from Ancient Greek thriambos — a doublet of "trump.".

“Triumph” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

“Triumph” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a great success or victory after overcoming difficulty.

A victory is any win or success over an opponent or challenge. A triumph is a great or notable victory, especially one achieved after real difficulty, and it carries a strong sense of celebration and elation. Every triumph is a victory, but a triumph is bigger and more emotionally charged.

'Success' is a broad word for achieving a desired result, large or small. 'Triumph' is a more emphatic word for a great success won after struggle, often accompanied by joy and pride. You might call a quiet achievement a success, but reserve 'triumph' for a hard-won win.

The verb 'triumph' is usually followed by 'over,' as in 'they triumphed over their rivals' or 'triumphed over adversity.' This pattern stresses overcoming an opponent or obstacle. As a noun, you often see 'a triumph of' something, as in 'a triumph of engineering.'

'Triumph' is somewhat formal and elevated, common in journalism, sport, and literary writing. It sounds grander than everyday words like 'win.' Use it when you want to convey a major, celebrated success rather than a routine one.