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.
But a three-dimensional person has no place in a show that could have the mid-gala switcheroo take place moments earlier. Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 22 May 2025 The three-dimensional Infiniti logo now lights up along with the daytime running lights, the same as on the QX80. Ed Garsten, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025 The curved, ribbed walls of their home were made using a 5-ton, three-dimensional printer that printed generated the entire wall system of their home in 12 days. Sarah Sekula, USA Today, 16 May 2025 That’s the fascinating premise of an exhibit at the Book Club of California, which conjures real, three-dimensional books based on tomes that never saw the light of day. John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 15 May 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 27 May. 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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