It is named for the three tubercles (cusps) of the molar teeth (not to be confused with Triconodonta). The clade Trituberculata is not always regarded as a valid one, and it likely does not form a monophyletic group.
This group is identified by its three projections (notches) on the molars (to be distinguished from Triconodonta). The clade Trituberculata is occasionally considered non-recognized, and it likely does not represent a cohesive evolutionary line.