di·men·sion
də-ˈmen(t)-shən 
also
dī-
1
a
mathematics
(1)
: measure in one direction
the dimensions of the room
specifically
: one of three coordinates (see coordinate entry 3 sense 1a) determining a position in space or four coordinates determining a position in space and time
(2)
: one of a group of properties whose number is necessary and sufficient to determine uniquely each element of a system of usually mathematical entities (such as an aggregate of points in real or abstract space)
the surface of a sphere has two dimensions
also
: a parameter (see parameter sense 1) or coordinate variable assigned to such a property
the three dimensions of momentum
(3)
: the number of elements in a basis (see basis sense 5) of a vector space
c
: a lifelike or realistic quality
uses eccentric dialogue to add dimension to her characters
d
: the range over which or the degree to which something extends : scope
—usually used in plural
the vast dimensions of the disaster
e
: one of the elements or factors making up a complete personality or entity : aspect
the social and political dimensions of the problem
2
obsolete
: bodily form or proportions
… my dimensions are as well compact, my mind as generous, and my shape as true …—
Shakespeare
Shakespeare3
mathematics
: any of the fundamental units (as of mass, length, or time) on which a derived unit is based
also
: the power of such a unit
4
: wood or stone cut to pieces of specified size
5
: a level of existence or consciousness
… a secular as well as spiritual dimension …—Catherine Bates
Catherine Bates
dimensioned; dimensioning
də-ˈmen(t)-shə-niŋ
also dī-
1
: to form to the required dimensions (see dimension entry 1 sense 1a(1))
a table dimensioned to fit the space
2
: to indicate the dimensions of (as on a drawing)
dimensioning the plans
Synonyms
Examples of dimension in a Sentence
Noun
She carefully measured each dimension of the room.
The social dimensions of the problem must also be taken into account.
Recent Examples on the WebKaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 26 Apr. 2024
In this evening gown, Dua Lipa brings a new dimension to the coquette aesthetic, the ultimate trend of 2024, seen on numerous catwalks.
—Héloïse Salessy, Glamour, 26 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for dimension 
Noun
Drummond calls for an addition of a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the boxed cake mix to complement the chocolate flavor and add further dimension to the batter.
—Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 26 Apr. 2024
In this evening gown, Dua Lipa brings a new dimension to the coquette aesthetic, the ultimate trend of 2024, seen on numerous catwalks.
—Héloïse Salessy, Glamour, 26 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for dimension
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dimension.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near dimension
Cite this Entry
“Dimension.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dimension. Accessed 3 May. 2024.
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