three-dimensional

adjective

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

Examples of three-dimensional in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The twin can be displayed on a screen or in virtual reality as a three-dimensional model that can be enlarged, rotated, and examined by a team of experts. Steve Levine, Fortune, 11 Apr. 2024 The watch’s design amplifies its adventurous message: The blue dial matches the tone of ice found in the ocean, while the caseback features a 3D engraving created in a three-dimensional blue-green relief depicting a view of the sea beneath the ice. Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 9 Apr. 2024 His entry in the 2002 World Trade Center memorial competition called for recreating the twin towers with a giant, three-dimensional red heart hanging from their upper floors. Fred A. Bernstein, New York Times, 4 Apr. 2024 The integer distance points become points in three-dimensional space that lie on the cone and also on a certain lattice. Quanta Magazine, 1 Apr. 2024 Cubic Feet: This is a measurement used to express the volume of a three-dimensional space. Nicole Pyles, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Mar. 2024 The advent of the wristwatch negated its function entirely, with the wearer’s three-dimensional movements keeping accuracy in check. The Editors, Robb Report, 28 Mar. 2024 While the Quran disapproves of three-dimensional forms, condemnation of two-dimensional representation appears in the Hadith (Traditions), composed after the Prophet Muhammad’s death. Smithsonian Magazine, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 Mar. 2024 At the premiere, McGregor showed off his Jacob & Co. Opera Godfather watch, an incredible three-dimensional timepiece the brand unveiled a couple of years ago. Roberta Naas, Forbes, 27 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'three-dimensional.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near three-dimensional

Cite this Entry

“Three-dimensional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/three-dimensional. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

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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