virtual

adjective

vir·​tu·​al ˈvər-chə-wəl 

-chəl;

ˈvərch-wəl

1

: being such in essence or effect though not formally recognized or admitted

a virtual dictator

2

: being on or simulated on a computer or computer network

print or virtual books

a virtual keyboard

: such as

a

: occurring or existing primarily online

virtual shopping

b

: of, relating to, or existing within a virtual reality

a virtual tour

3

: of, relating to, or using virtual memory

4

: of, relating to, or being a hypothetical particle whose existence is inferred from indirect evidence

virtual photons

compare real sense 3

Examples of virtual in a Sentence

The website provides a virtual tour of the stadium.

Recent Examples on the Web

In an April 7 memo, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced that the DOJ will no longer prioritize enforcement actions against virtual currency exchanges, mixers, and non-custodial wallets. —Andrea Tinianow, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025

Nanette kills the virtual Robert Daly with his own ceremonial knife through his skull. —Adam B. Vary, Variety, 10 Apr. 2025

Produced by Sony Immersive Music Studios (Sony IMS), the event showcases how artists can create unique virtual worlds to engage gaming-first audiences. —Marc Schneider, Billboard, 10 Apr. 2025

Click here for more photos of our virtual Aston Martin Valhalla hypercar. —Tim Pitt, Robb Report, 9 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, efficacious, potential, from Medieval Latin virtualis, from Latin virtus strength, virtue

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing virtual

• virtual colonoscopy
• virtual image
• virtual memory
• virtual private network
• virtual reality

Kids Definition

virtual

adjective

vir·​tu·​al ˈvərch-(ə-)wəl 

ˈvər-chəl

: being in effect but not in fact or name

a virtual dictator

: being on or simulated on a computer or computer network

a virtual classroom

virtually

-ē

adverb