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

More than 50 game studios, virtual YouTubers and entertainment companies across 11 countries, mostly in the U.S., South Korea and the U.K., have ordered Tracin devices. —John Kang, Forbes.com, 29 Mar. 2025

The digital marketplace serves as a precursor to the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), scheduled for May 1-4, 2025, in Mumbai, where many of the virtual connections made through the platform are expected to transform into face-to-face business relationships. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 29 Mar. 2025

The 49-year-old Game of Thrones alum reflected on his new level of fame during a March 24 virtual critics press conference for the post-apocalyptic drama’s second season, which premieres April 13 on HBO and Max. —Brian Anthony Hernandez, People.com, 29 Mar. 2025

The platform also features live chats, polls, predictions and virtual watch parties. —Sara Merican, Deadline, 28 Mar. 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