This card often carries the meaning of joyful social contact,^[1] although it may be considered to be rather superficial, unlike the two of the same suit which is considered more personal. There's agreement, general harmony, frivolity, and sometimes it is associated with birth,^[2][3] especially if it comes up with other birth-related cards such as The Empress.

The Three of Cups represents groups coming together to focus on a common emotional goal. People reach out emotionally to one another.^{[citation needed]} It speaks of a sense of community, and can indicate the time to get more involved by helping. An inner passion for caring may be discovered, and energy put forth toward a goal will be positive and nurturing. It can also signal that this is the time to reach out if things have been particularly rough in the past. This card stands for all forms of support including formal organizations such as counseling or other social services. It's important that when the need for support is recognized that action is taken. This is the best time to do that. Reversed, the Three of Cups suggests that isolation from others is occurring. It is the time to take charge of the situation and to get out into the community. Consider joining a group or organization, and if the need for support is present, seek out the necessary resources.^{[original research?]}

In the Thoth tarot deck this card is labeled abundance, and is associated with the second decan of Cancer, said to be ruled by the Moon in astrology. Those born during the cusps of Gemini/Cancer (June 18-24) and Cancer/Leo (July 19-25) are said to hold traits of both star signs, therefore, being influenced by both planets. Gemini ruled by Mercury whilst the Leo is ruled by the Sun.

In the first Circle of Three novel, the Three of Cups comes up in a tarot reading and convinces the main character to pursue her Wiccan studies and befriend the two girls whom she met through her original encounter with witchcraft.