physicality

American  

[fiz-i-kal-i-tee] / ˌfɪz ɪˈkæl ɪ ti /

noun

physicalities plural

1. the physical attributes of a person, especially when overdeveloped or overemphasized.

2. preoccupation with one's body, physical needs, or appetites.

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physicality British  

/ ˌfɪzɪˈkælɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being physical

2. the physical characteristics of a person, object, etc

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• physicalities
  plural

Etymology

Origin of physicality

First recorded in 1585–95; physical + -ity

Explanation

Physicality is the quality of being closely connected in some way to the body. The physicality of your modern dance might surprise your audience, who weren't expecting so much stomping around and rolling on the floor. You can also use the term physicality for things that are real, concrete and tangible: "I liked the physicality of that art exhibit, all of those huge sculptures that we could touch." It often refers to the presence of physical human bodies, though: "The physicality of the toddlers' play surprised me — they looked like professional wrestlers!" The key to this noun's meaning is the presence of physical, "relating to the body."

Example Sentences

Tuchel has made it clear he wants his England team to play in a style that replicates the physicality of the Premier League.

From BBC • Jun. 22, 2026

“Some players and coaches in the past have talked about the physicality of the play,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 14, 2026

But there is an emerging feeling that Tuchel prefers more physicality in his central defensive pairing – with Stones and Konsa bigger than Guehi.

From BBC • Jun. 12, 2026

“It’s hard, I think, on a defensive end, especially when you’re somebody that enjoys the physicality and you like to lean into it,” Hamby said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 7, 2026

He had waited until Dad and Luke were out of the house, away on a job, so his physicality could go unchallenged.

From "Educated" by Tara Westover