A triple is a joke consisting of three statements. The first two statements are similar and establish a pattern while the third statement does not follow the pattern.

For example:

John was a quiet gentleman who liked to:

  1. work in the garden
  2. read literary works
  3. offer his services as a soldier of fortune

Obviously, the third activity "offer his services as a soldier of fortune" does not follow the first two activities. This may be found humorous.

See also