three-dimensional

adjective

three-di·​men·​sion·​al ˈthrē-də-ˈmen(t)-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce three-dimensional (audio)
 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 processesL. L. Snyder
4
: true to life : lifelike
three-dimensionality noun

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
An iridescent, three-dimensional butterfly reminiscent of the singer's Lover era popped up as the centerpiece of the gift, and a card with the Grammy winner's full name was set below the sparkling figurine. Zoey Lyttle, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025 Sweeney’s custom look took six weeks to make and is like-for-like, from the three-dimensional star appliqués across the bodice and hips, to the corseted back and flippy, chainmail-like skirt. Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 1 Oct. 2025 Cue the standout white coat crafted from a blend of cashmere and ultra-fine wool, which came with three-dimensional flowers blossoming on the sleeves. Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2025 Studied through a special handheld viewer, the side-by-side stereo images gave the illusion of three-dimensional reality. Literary Hub, 29 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for three-dimensional

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of three-dimensional was in 1872

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Cite this Entry

“Three-dimensional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/three-dimensional. Accessed 4 Oct. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on three-dimensional

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