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 watch division’s three-dimensional, unconventional approach to traditional watchmaking is akin to Gehry’s out-sized, often outrageously shaped post-modern architecture. Carol Bresler, Robb Report, 13 Mar. 2024 Usually, the cells need a three-dimensional platform to guide their growth, known as a scaffold. Yasmin Tayag, The Atlantic, 8 Mar. 2024 The festival will feature thousands of pieces of two- and three-dimensional art created by students representing 24 area schools and all grade levels. Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Mar. 2024 Hydrogels are a unique gel-type comprising a three-dimensional network of hydrophilic polymer chains. William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2024 Even in miniature, three-dimensional drapes, silhouettes, and finishes were more evocative of the final product than simple sketches and swatches. Lilah Ramzi, Vogue, 28 Feb. 2024 The car isn’t even wearing real license plates, just a three-dimensional badge that says Model 3 like it might for a manufacturer photo shoot. Bradley Brownell / Jalopnik, Quartz, 27 Feb. 2024 The dress also featured three-dimensional gold appliqués around the hem. Hanna Lustig, Glamour, 26 Feb. 2024 Classified as orb weavers, the spiders catch prey using their giant, three-dimensional webs. Taylor Nicioli, CNN, 25 Feb. 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 29 Mar. 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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