one-dimensional

adjective

one-di·​men·​sion·​al

ˈwən-də-ˈmen(t)-sh(ə-)nəl

 

 also  -dī-

1

: having one dimension

A straight line is one-dimensional.

The one-dimensional sequence of amino acids is the primary structure.

—Douglas R. Hofstadter

2

: lacking depth or complexity : superficial

To the audience, the term "sitcom" connoted a lot of one-dimensional stories and characters.

—Bob Fisher

one-dimensionality

ˈwən-də-ˌmen(t)-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

 also  -dī-

noun

one-di​mension​ally adverb

a one-dimensionally portrayed character

The pixels were arranged one-dimensionally. [=in a straight line]

Synonyms

• facile
• shallow
• skin-deep
• superficial

Examples of one-dimensional in a Sentence

a one-dimensional analysis of a novel that has a lot to say about personal courage

Recent Examples on the Web

Combined with a chemical rinse, the process also removes metal catalyst impurities created during manufacturing while maintaining the critical one-dimensional nanostructure that makes CNTs so special. —Joe Salas june 10, New Atlas, 10 June 2025

Given center stage, these once one-dimensional characters can be a hoot. —Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 10 June 2025

Pascal, in a role that could have been one-dimensional, gives Harry genuine humanity and likability. —Pete Hammond, Deadline, 10 June 2025

Conversions about Indian casinos can easily become one-dimensional, and without the proper context, public perception can distort what gaming means to our communities. —Ashley MacKin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for one-dimensional

• multidimensional
• unidimensional
• attentional
• conventional
• dimensional
• extensional
• intensional
• intentional
• interventional
• nonconventional
• nondimensional
• unconventional

Kids Definition

one-dimensional

adjective

1

: having one dimension

2

: stereotyped