three-dimensional

adjective

three-di·​men·​sion·​al ˈthrē-də-ˈmench-nəl 

-ˈmen(t)-shə-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

• lifelike
• living
• natural
• naturalistic
• naturalist
• near
• photo-realistic
• realistic

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

The concept works perfectly in a three-dimensional space like when flying a plane. —New Atlas, 13 July 2024

Using a piece of skin from near the animal’s ear, scientists have reconstructed the three-dimensional architecture of its DNA, according to a new paper published this week in the journal Cell. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 12 July 2024

But the three-dimensional element of Felix’s dress was also prominently featured on the red carpet of the 2024 Met Gala last May, as well. —Julia Teti, WWD, 11 July 2024

For example, the question of orientation in three-dimensional space is critical. —Jordana Cepelewicz, Quanta Magazine, 10 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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