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 showstopping number featured painterly streaks of canary yellow and robin’s egg blue tulle across the bodice, which was also adorned with three-dimensional berry and flower embellishments and black velvet straps. —Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 3 Feb. 2025

Archaeologists have discovered what may be the world's oldest three-dimensional map, a study reports. —Aristos Georgiou, Newsweek, 2 Feb. 2025

One of al-Alwi’s early pieces was a model of a three-dimensional window. —Alexandra Moore, The Conversation, 30 Jan. 2025

Hidden information in maps of galaxies spread across the universe could soon come forth, thanks to a new way of interrogating the data that preserves the three-dimensional nature of these maps. —Keith Cooper, Space.com, 28 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