one-dimensional

adjective

one-di·​men·​sion·​al ˈwən-də-ˈmen(t)-sh(ə-)nəl 

also -dī-

1

: having one dimension

A straight line is one-dimensional.

The one-dimensional sequence of amino acids is the primary structure.

—Douglas R. Hofstadter

2

: lacking depth or complexity : superficial

To the audience, the term "sitcom" connoted a lot of one-dimensional stories and characters.

—Bob Fisher

one-dimensionality

ˈwən-də-ˌmen(t)-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

also -dī-

noun

one-di​mension​ally adverb

a one-dimensionally portrayed character

The pixels were arranged one-dimensionally. [=in a straight line]

Synonyms of one-dimensional

• superficial
• shallow

Examples of one-dimensional in a Sentence

a one-dimensional analysis of a novel that has a lot to say about personal courage

Recent Examples on the Web

If nothing else changes, Sacramento’s rotation will be clogged with aging, one-dimensional vets who can’t defend in space or keep up in transition. —Lebron Antonio Hill, Sacbee.com, 3 Feb. 2026

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a new way to reshape MXenes, a highly conductive class of nanomaterials, into one-dimensional structures that could improve batteries, biosensors, and wearable electronics. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 30 Jan. 2026

Leathered and soft-honed finishes will replace ultra-glossy finishes, and natural stone with movement and depth will replace flat, one-dimensional countertop materials. —Cori Sears, The Spruce, 30 Jan. 2026

But don’t dismiss Ausar as a one-dimensional, brutish player. —Haley Sawyer, Oc Register, 24 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for one-dimensional

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

Kids Definition

one-dimensional

adjective

1

: having one dimension

2

: stereotyped