three-dimensional

adjective

three-di·​men·​sion·​al ˈthrē-də-ˈmen(t)-sh(ə-)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 processes

—L. L. Snyder

4

: true to life : lifelike

three-dimensionality

ˈthrē-də-ˌmen(t)-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

noun

Synonyms

• lifelike
• living
• natural
• naturalistic
• naturalist
• near
• photo-realistic
• realistic

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

The actress wore a gown courtesy of Oscar de la Renta, which featured tropical pink florals and green leaves cascading across the bodice and upper skirt of her dress, adding a textured, three-dimensional element. —Julia Teti, WWD, 10 Jan. 2025

The display is three-dimensional and includes speed, adaptive driving assistance information, stoplight and road sign information, navigation information, and state of charge. —Abigail Bassett, The Verge, 7 Jan. 2025

Rare three-dimensional works from pop art legends Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol are on display. —Douglas Markowitz, Miami Herald, 6 Jan. 2025

To embellish a client’s ceiling, Westbrooks designed a three-dimensional millwork detail. —The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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