1
: relating to the body of a person instead of the mind
physical abuse
The program is designed to address both physical and emotional health.
No physical contact with other players is allowed in the game.
He has an unusual physical appearance.
He is in good physical condition. [=he is strong and healthy; he is in good shape]
physical fitness [=good health and strength that you get through exercise]
2
: existing in a form that you can touch or see
physical objects
the physical environment/world
There was no physical evidence of the crime.
3
: involving or related to sex
physical attraction
Their relationship was purely physical.
4
a
: involving or having a lot of movement or activity
physical comedy [=comedy in which people hit each other, fall down, etc.]
He's a very physical comedian.
b
: involving or having very violent and forceful activity
Ice hockey is a very physical sport.
It was a very physical hockey game.
He's one of the team's most physical players.
5
a
: of or relating to the laws of nature
Scientists used the space station to study physical phenomena in a weightless environment.
b
always used before a noun
: of or relating to the study of physics
physical forces
6
: tending to express love or affection by touching other people
She is a very physical person.
plural physicals
: a medical examination to see if a person's body is healthy
Her doctor performed a routine physical. [=checkup]
an annual physical
called also physical examination
Cite this Entry
“Physical.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/physical. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.
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