physically

adverb

phys·​i·​cal·​ly ˈfi-zi-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce physically (audio)
1
: in a physical manner : in accord with physical laws
It seemed that such long distance flights would be physically impossible without a highly energy-efficient form of soaring.—Henri Weimerskirch
2
: in respect to the body
a physically demanding job
Just two weeks before his death, Belushi was physically ejected from an L.A. convenience store at 2 a.m. when he insisted on buying liquor after hours.—Peter Carlson
I loved it; but I was physically exhausted when I walked out of that studio on Sunday nights …—Brent Musberger

Examples of physically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
His dad was responsible for physically putting up the lights this year, but Berck still controls the programming side through a VPN. — Carolyn Stein, Chicago Tribune, 27 Oct. 2026 But finding a way to best the Valkyries physically could give them a chance to extend the series. — Lauren Williams, AJC.com, 27 Oct. 2026 Court filings also revealed that Jean Louis, a former employee at the same Walmart who was terminated for immigration reasons, had previously physically assaulted Cooper and repeatedly contacted store staff to request Cooper's work schedule. — Robert McGreevy, FOXNews.com, 27 Oct. 2026 The idea that someone who is physically able, physically healthy, with no dependents at home to care for, not making an effort that puts the program at risk for everyone. — Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 26 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for physically

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1528, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of physically was circa 1528

Phrases Containing physically

Browse Nearby Words

physical libration
physically
physically distance
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Physically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physically. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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