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

On a conceptual new EP, the British producer leads vivid journeys through vaporous synthwork and glitchy samples. —Colin Joyce, Pitchfork, 28 Jan. 2026

The conceptual genius has found a way to turn Los Angeles into a movie character too! —Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 26 Jan. 2026

Dedar Milano’s Abstract Newness Dedar Milano’s 2026 collection of fabrics embraced pure abstraction and fresh conceptual ideas. —Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 22 Jan. 2026

Long drawn to water and waves, Williams looked to those motifs as the conceptual foundation for Drophaus. —Fanny Guénon Des Mesnards, Architectural Digest, 21 Jan. 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