Definition

Adjective: 1. Having, appearing to have, or involving three dimensions (height, width, and depth): This describes objects or representations that possess or simulate volume and spatial depth, as opposed to being flat. 2. Fully realized; having depth and complexity: This figurative meaning describes characters, ideas, or descriptions that are detailed, realistic, and multifaceted.

Usage

The adjective "third-dimensional" is used to qualify nouns, describing their spatial properties or their qualitative depth. It is synonymous with "three-dimensional" and is often hyphenated.

Examples

• Literal (Spatial):
  • The sculptor created a third-dimensional model of the building before construction began.
  • With new graphics technology, the video game characters look remarkably third-dimensional.
• Figurative (Complexity):
  • The author is praised for her third-dimensional characters, who feel like real people with contradictions.
  • The documentary provided a third-dimensional analysis of the historical event, exploring multiple perspectives.

Advanced Usage

• "third-dimensionality" (noun): The quality or state of being third-dimensional.
  • The third-dimensionality of the hologram was astonishing.
  • The novel's strength lies in the third-dimensionality of its protagonist.

Variants and Related Words

• Three-dimensional (adj.): The more common variant, identical in meaning to "third-dimensional".
• 3-D / 3D (adj., n.): An abbreviation for "three-dimensional," frequently used in contexts like film ("a 3D movie"), printing ("3D printer"), and graphics.
• Two-dimensional (adj.): The direct antonym, meaning having only two dimensions (length and width) or, figuratively, lacking depth and complexity.
• Stereoscopic (adj.): Relating to a technique for creating the illusion of depth by presenting two slightly different images, one to each eye.

Synonyms

• Literal: solid, stereoscopic, volumetric.
• Figurative: lifelike, realistic, rounded, deep, multifaceted, complex, fully realized.

Antonyms

• Literal: flat, two-dimensional, planar.
• Figurative: one-dimensional, flat, shallow, simplistic, cartoonish.

Adjective

1. involving or relating to three dimensions or aspects; giving the illusion of depth
   • lifelike three-dimensional characters
   • a three-dimensional account of conditions under the new government
   • they shot the movie in three-D