conceptual

adjective

con·​cep·​tu·​al kən-ˈsep-chə-wəl 

-chü-əl, 

kän-, 

-chəl, 

-shwəl

: of, relating to, or consisting of concepts

conceptual thinking

the project's conceptual and technical hurdles

conceptual designs

conceptuality

kən-ˌsep-chə-ˈwa-lə-tē 

-shə-;

-chü-ˈa-, 

-shü-

noun

conceptually adverb

Synonyms of conceptual

• theoretical
• metaphysical
• abstract

Examples of conceptual in a Sentence

The plans have both conceptual and practical difficulties.

conceptual thinking is often the most demanding kind of mental activity

Recent Examples on the Web

This math curriculum, designed around state grade-level standards, prioritizes deeper understanding, rather than memorization, to help students develop conceptual understanding over time, said district spokesperson James Canning. — Jemma Stephenson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Aug. 2026

The conceptual and performance artist will be feted with an Award of Inspiration while Rexha is due to hit the stage on the heels of the release of her latest album Dirty Blonde. — Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 10 Aug. 2026

America can fill the conceptual void with a new model of cargo vessel. — Craig Hooper, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026

Cast and storyline The star of the show was the first mate Gilligan (who briefly had the first name Willy during the conceptual stages of the show), played by Bob Denver. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 5 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Medieval Latin conceptualis of thought, from Late Latin conceptus act of conceiving, thought, from Latin concipere — see concept entry 1

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing conceptual

• conceptual art

Medical Definition

conceptual

adjective

con·​cep·​tu·​al kən-ˈsep-chə(-wə)l, kän-, -ˈsepsh-wəl 

: of, relating to, or consisting of concepts

conceptually adverb