The term is a modern compound specific to basketball statistics, formed by combining two numerical adjectives of Latin origin. "Triple" derives from the Latin triplus (threefold), and "double" from duplus (twofold). In its original contexts, these words described simple multiplicative quantities. The specialized sports term "triple-double" repurposes them to denote a specific, complex statistical achievement: the attainment of a double-digit count in three separate categories. This evolution showcases how technical jargon creatively recombines classical morphemes to create precise, new meanings within a defined domain.

Structure: triple (three) + double (two) triple: From Latin triplus, from tri- (three) + -plus (fold). In English, it functions as a combining form meaning "three times" or "threefold." double: From Old French doble, from Latin duplus (twofold), from duo (two) + -plus (fold). In English, it functions as a combining form meaning "two times" or "twofold."