tubular

adjective

tu·​bu·​lar ˈtü-byə-lər 

ˈtyü-

1

a

: having the form of or consisting of a tube

a tubular calyx

b

: made or provided with tubes

2

: of, relating to, or sounding as if produced through tubes

Examples of tubular in a Sentence

a radiator of tubular construction

Recent Examples on the Web

The Tetra, from Analog Machine Works, features an unusually long tubular space frame with a pair of opposite-facing tetrahedrons in its interconnected structure. — New Atlas, 7 July 2026

But smaller tubular flowers, such as penstemon and pentas, can attract both types of pollinators. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 6 July 2026

Limited to just 50 pieces, the RM 64-01 Tourbillon Colnago shows off a tubular design that calls back to the RM 012 Tourbillon—and, of course, evokes the frame of a bike. — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 29 June 2026

The living room is peppered with standout pieces of furniture like Petite Friture’s reissue of René Herbst’s tubular-steel chaise longue, and Philippe Starck’s aluminum Romantica chair. — Anna-Lena Reith, Architectural Digest, 24 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1673, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for tubular

• peritubular

Kids Definition

tubular

adjective

tu·​bu·​lar ˈt(y)ü-byə-lər 

1

: having the form of or consisting of a tube

2

: made or provided with tubes

Medical Definition

tubular

adjective

tu·​bu·​lar ˈt(y)ü-byə-lər 

1

: having the form of or consisting of a tube

2

: of, relating to, or sounding as if produced through a tube or tubule

tubular rales