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

Possible future applications of the device include the production of three-dimensional scaffolding-like structures used to support the growth of artificial ligaments or veins. —New Atlas, 5 Nov. 2025

The method produces a three-dimensional effect which can be fully removed to reveal a matching Malt/Light Soft Pink/Particle Rose/Mauve Gray suede colorway undefneath. —Riley Jones, Footwear News, 4 Nov. 2025

The breakthrough creation marks a major first in planetary science, as a three-dimensional model of a planet orbiting another star beyond our sun had never before existed, the team claimed in a press release. —Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 30 Oct. 2025

Astronomers have produced the first-ever three-dimensional map of a planet outside our solar system — WASP-18b — marking a major leap forward in exoplanet research. —Stefanie Waldek, Space.com, 29 Oct. 2025

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