A three-dimensional object is solid rather than flat, because it can be measured in three different directions, usually the height, length, and width. The abbreviation 3-D can also be used.
...a three-dimensional model.
...the three-dimensional structure of DNA.
2. adjective
A three-dimensional picture, image, or film looks as though it is deep or solid rather than flat. The abbreviation 3-D can also be used.
...new software, which generates both two-dimensional drawings and three-dimensionalimages.
...three dimensional pictures created by lasers.
Synonyms: solid, rounded, holographic, stereoscopic More Synonyms of three-dimensional
3. adjective
If you describe fictional characters as three-dimensional you mean that they seem real and natural.
[approval]
She is a full, three-dimensional character in a way that is unusual for the horrorgenre.
4. adjective [ADJECTIVE noun]
Three-dimensional art or design is produced by carving or shaping stone, wood, clay, or other materials. The abbreviation 3-D can also be used.
...a degree in three-dimensional art.
three-dimensional in British English
or three-D or 3-D
adjective
1.
of, having, or relating to three dimensions
three-dimensional space
2.
(of a film, transparency, etc) simulating the effect of depth by presenting slightly different views of a scene to each eye
3.
having volume
4.
lifelike or real
three-dimensional in American English
(ˈθridəˈmɛnʃənəl)
adjective
1.
a.
of or having three dimensions
b.
appearing to have depth or thickness in addition to height and width
2.
having a convincing or lifelike quality
Examples of 'three-dimensional' in a sentence
three-dimensional
An image appeared in front of him, life-size, three-dimensional, evidently made of light.
Amanda Hemingway THE GREENSTONE GRAIL: THE SANGREAL TRILOGY ONE (2004)
Millions of individual neurons, like tiny, glowing red spiders, were packed into a three-dimensional web.
Zindell, David THE BROKEN GOD (2004)
These were the things that made Frank three-dimensional to Petra.
Mark Burnell THE RHYTHM SECTION (2004)
In other languages
three-dimensional
British English: three-dimensional /ˌθriːdɪˈmɛnʃənl/ ADJECTIVE
A three-dimensional object is solid rather than flat, because it can be measured in three dimensions, usually the height, length, and width.