physically
Americanadverb
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relating to the body or its appearance.
He is not physically attractive.
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according to what exists in the physical world as perceived by the senses.
It's not physically possible because of the laws of gravity.
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in a way that involves rough body contact or strenuous physical activity: a physically demanding sport.
a physically abusive spouse;
a physically demanding sport.
Etymology
Origin of physically
First recorded in 1580–90; physical ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"I can't just physically stand up and walk out and leave it alone. A lot of resilience was needed - a lot of experience as well."
From BBC ● Nov. 3, 2026
Researchers still need to determine whether such fragmentation can physically occur and what conditions would make it possible.
From Science Daily ● Nov. 3, 2026
I was well-rested for the first time in my adult life, and I felt physically good to be alive in ways I had not thought possible.
From Slate ● Nov. 1, 2026
What we do want is the freedom to travel with like-minded friends, perhaps extensively, while we’re still physically able to enjoy it.
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 29, 2026
Immortal she might be, but she was physically small, and frightened.
From "Impossible Creatures" by Katherine Rundell
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.