Meaning of physical in English

  1. Pronunciation

    /ˈfɪzɪk(ə)l/

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  1. Classifying Adjective

    physical

    Definitions

    1. having substance or material existence

    Examples

    • « perceptible to the senses »
    • « a physical manifestation »
    • « surrounded by tangible objects »

    Synonyms

  2. 2. according with material things or natural laws (other than those peculiar to living matter)

    Examples

    • « a reflex response to physical stimuli »

    Synonyms

  3. 3. characterized by energetic bodily activity

    Examples

    • « tennis is an active sport »
    • « a very physical dance performance »

    Synonyms

  4. 4. concerned with material things

    Examples

    • « physical properties »
    • « the physical characteristics of the earth »
    • « the physical size of a computer »

    Synonyms

  5. 5. impelled by physical force especially against resistance

    Examples

    • « forcible entry »
    • « a real cop would get physical »
    • « strong-arm tactics »

    Synonyms

  6. Qualitative Adjective

    physical

    Etymology

    late Middle English (in the sense ‘relating to medicine’): from medieval Latin physicalis, from Latin physica‘things relating to nature’ (see physic). Sense 2 dates from the late 16th century and sense 1 from the late 18th century

    Definitions

    1. involving the body as distinguished from the mind or spirit

    Examples

    • « physical exercise »
    • « physical suffering »
    • « was sloppy about everything but her physical appearance »

    Synonyms

    Antonyms

  7. 2. relating to the sciences dealing with matter and energy

    Examples

    • « especially physics »
    • « physical sciences »
    • « physical laws »