third dimension

noun

1
: thickness, depth
also : a dimension that adds the effect of solidity to a two-dimensional system
2
: a quality that confers reality or lifelikeness
… night sounds that stick in the mind and give a third dimension to the memory.—Adie Suehsdorf
third-dimensional
ˈthərd- də-ˈmen(t)-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce third dimension (audio)
adjective

Examples of third dimension 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.
This lack of a perceivable third dimension can lead to a lot of confusion. — Phil Plait, Scientific American, 19 June 2026 Plants in containers add that third dimension to our landscape designs. — Neil Sperry, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Aug. 2025 The third dimension of authoritarianism is the stories a regime tells about itself, its people, its history, and its place in the world. — Stephen Kotkin, Foreign Affairs, 16 Dec. 2025 Geographic expansion goals represent the third dimension of strategic fit. — David Natroshvili, Forbes.com, 5 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for third dimension

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of third dimension was in 1846

Rhymes for third dimension

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Browse Nearby Words

third-degree burn
third dimension
third estate
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Third dimension.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/third%20dimension. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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