Definition

Noun: 1. A three-dimensional form or appearance; the quality of having or appearing to have length, width, and depth. This refers to the perceptual quality of solidity and spatial depth, as opposed to flat, two-dimensional (2D) images. 2. A movie, image, or technology that creates the illusion of three-dimensional depth for the viewer. This often involves special filming techniques, glasses, or display systems to achieve the effect.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Modern video games use advanced graphics to create a convincing sense of 3-D.
  • The sculpture's 3-D effect was stunning when viewed from different angles.
  • We went to see the new animated film in 3-D.
  • The architect presented the building design in 3-D on her computer.

Advanced Usage

• As an adjective (often hyphenated: 3-D or 3D): While primarily a noun, it is frequently used attributively to describe nouns related to this technology or appearance.
  • She specializes in 3-D animation.
  • The museum has a 3D printer available for public use.
  • They developed a new 3-D modeling software.

Variants and Related Words

• Three-dimensional (adj): The full, non-numerical form with the same meaning. Often used in more formal or technical contexts.
  • The artist creates three-dimensional sculptures from recycled materials.
• Stereoscopic (adj): A more technical term relating to the technique of creating a 3-D effect by presenting two slightly different images, one to each eye.
• Hologram (n): A true three-dimensional image created with laser light, which can be viewed from different angles without special glasses.

Synonyms

• Three-dimensional
• Stereoscopic (specifically for images/film)
• Solid (in contrast to flat)

Antonyms

• Two-dimensional (2-D, 2D)
• Flat

Noun

1. having a three-dimensional form or appearance
   • aren't dreams always in 3-D?
2. a movie with images having three dimensional form or appearance