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

Moreover, the scans enabled the creation of three-dimensional models of the fossils, which have been shared online to allow global study. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 12 Nov. 2025

Watson became mesmerized with the three-dimensional structures of molecules from his bacterial virus research at the university. —Christina Zdanowicz, CNN Money, 7 Nov. 2025

By observing body fat tissue in mice using three-dimensional imaging, the researchers found that AD splits these neurovascular bundles apart and disrupts, or abrogates, the function of the sympathetic nerves. —New Atlas, 7 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

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