materiality

noun

ma·​te·​ri·​al·​i·​ty mə-ˌtir-ē-ˈa-lə-tē 

plural materialities

1

: the quality or state of being material

2

: something that is material

Synonyms

• case
• reality
• fact

Examples of materiality in a Sentence

preferred a single materiality to a slew of hypotheticals

the materiality of that fact is not in dispute

Recent Examples on the Web

Securities litigation expertise to frame loss causation and materiality arguments. —Tim Reynolds, Fortune, 3 Oct. 2025

But an object can tell a story about itself through its materiality or formal vocabulary, for instance, rather than its maker. —Aaina Bhargava, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2025

While simplicity of form, a limited and neutral color palette, and a ban on superfluous decoration remain core characteristics of minimalism, contemporary designers have put their stamp on the style through materiality and tonal warmth. —Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Sep. 2025

Inspired by the culture, history, and landscape of the Mediterranean islands, the group of statement pieces—lighting, seating, and surfaces—come together through its form and materiality. —Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 23 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1570, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for materiality

• bisexuality
• collegiality
• conditionality
• congeniality
• conventionality
• conviviality
• dimensionality
• directionality
• emotionality
• essentiality
• eventuality
• grammaticality