three-dimensional

adjective

three-di·​men·​sion·​al ˈthrē-də-ˈmen(t)-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce three-dimensional (audio)
also -dī-
Synonyms of three-dimensionalnext
1
: of, relating to, or having three dimensions
2
: giving the illusion of depth or varying distances
used especially of an image or a pictorial representation on a two-dimensional medium when this illusion is enhanced by stereoscopic means
3
: describing or being described in well-rounded completeness
… a three-dimensional analysis of multiple historical processes …L. L. Snyder
4
: true to life : lifelike
three-dimensionality noun

Examples of three-dimensional in a Sentence

an actress who has been acclaimed for her three-dimensional portrayal of the celebrated monarch
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Catullus’s work shows us ourselves, in all our three-dimensional goodness and terribleness, and sometimes this vision, in 2025, comes as a fun vindication. Literary Hub, 10 Dec. 2025 Gehry pursued architecture after a ceramics teacher saw his talent for three-dimensional art. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 5 Dec. 2025 The piece was designed with three-dimensional voluminous handmade flowers over the entirety of the jacket, creating a lavish textural display and adding a touch of femininity to the more subdued elements of her attire. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 4 Dec. 2025 The Lab Spatial Audio gives you surprisingly big, three-dimensional sound, and Cloud Foam earcups and headband keep things soft and comfy for long listening. PC Magazine, 1 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for three-dimensional

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of three-dimensional was in 1870

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Cite this Entry

“Three-dimensional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/three-dimensional. Accessed 15 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

three-dimensional

adjective
1
: of, relating to, or having three dimensions (as length, width, and height)
2
: giving the appearance of depth or varying distances

More from Merriam-Webster on three-dimensional

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