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

Knowing this about Deneb transforms the Summer Triangle into a three-dimensional shape. — Jamie Carter, Space.com, 24 July 2026

It is composed of extremely thin layers of iron selenide, or FeSe, which are embedded repeatedly throughout a much larger three-dimensional crystal. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 19 July 2026

In particular, scientists can use stem cells to grow miniature, three-dimensional models of human organs—called organoids—in the laboratory. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 10 July 2026

Latter visits from the French supply ships performed three-dimensional mapping of the seafloor in the area to determine the outcome of any events that were detected. — John Timmer, ArsTechnica, 8 July 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