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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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

It brought a physicality that PSG has rarely encountered this season.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 30, 2026

It is a sport, and there’s a physicality to it as well.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2026

Given the impressive physicality of the Spurs squad, utilising a high press as a method of chance creation has been smart too.

From BBC • May 4, 2026

Luis Enrique, however, with the players at his disposal, has conjured a brilliant mix of physicality, chemistry and technique to produce one of football's most exciting teams in recent memory.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

I liked losing myself in the physicality of sport where I didn’t have to think or plan for what was next.

From "Proud" by Ibtihaj Muhammad