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

Beyond computing applications, the system could also serve as a research tool for studying how neural circuits develop, adapt, and function inside realistic three-dimensional environments. —Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 8 May 2026

The top was a strapless, boxy, heavily textured bodice constructed from three-dimensional floral embellishments. —Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 4 May 2026

During games, Clokey is usually in the press box using Trackman, three-dimensional Doppler radar technology, Rapsodo, a ball-flight monitor than measures launch angle and exit velocity, and other technology, such as slow-motion and high-speed video. —Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 3 May 2026

With the addition of the right proteins at the right time, these stem cells can be prompted to grow in labs into beating, three-dimensional heart organoids in just a couple of weeks. —Tereza Pultarova, Space.com, 3 May 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