physicality

American  

[fiz-i-kal-i-tee] / ˌfɪz ɪˈkæl ɪ ti /

noun

plural

physicalities

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

She played well for Seattle last year, but, oh no, she’ll be 36 during the season, and one wonders when the physicality will take its toll.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026

Between the artistry of Curry and the physicality of James, they’ve been faces of the NBA, Lakers coach JJ Redick said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

For me, it was important to give us the rehearsal space, to experiment with the physicality of the space and how we relate to each other.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Would Kieron Bowie's physicality and new-found Serie A experience have brought a point of difference up front?

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

There was more physicality, for one thing, and that always helped: We received instruction in the use of the baton and in a variety of martial arts and other tough-guy methods, cumulatively labeled Defensive Tactics.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover