three-dimensional

adjective

three-di·​men·​sion·​al ˈthrē-də-ˈmen(t)-sh(ə-)nəl 

also -dī-

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

ˈthrē-də-ˌmen(t)-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

noun

Synonyms of three-dimensional

• realistic
• living
• naturalistic
• natural
• lifelike
• vivid

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

The new work differs by using direct ink writing to create three-dimensional channel waveguides, rather than a planar structure. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 22 Aug. 2026

To turn that into a three-dimensional seascape seems almost wrong or off-putting. — Matteo Wong, The Atlantic, 20 Aug. 2026

Both combined a live orchestra performance with compelling three-dimensional visual storytelling. — Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 20 Aug. 2026

An extended proof could be used to study the three-dimensional world and would become a universal mathematical tool in its own right. — Shalma Wegsman, Quanta Magazine, 12 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for three-dimensional

• interventional
• nonconventional
• nondimensional
• unconventional
• unintentional
• attentional
• conventional
• dimensional
• extensional
• intensional
• intentional
• multidimensional

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