physically

American  

[fiz-ik-lee] / ˈfɪz ɪk li /

adverb

1. relating to the body or its appearance.

   He is not physically attractive.

2. according to what exists in the physical world as perceived by the senses.

   It's not physically possible because of the laws of gravity.

3. in a way that involves rough body contact or strenuous physical activity: a physically demanding sport.

   a physically abusive spouse;

   a physically demanding sport.

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Etymology

Origin of physically

First recorded in 1580–90; physical ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

physically

"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

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

For someone living with chronic pain, this means the experience can extend far beyond the moments when the pain is physically present.

From Science Daily ● Oct. 30, 2026

Mschf co-founder Lukas Bentel, who helped create the firm’s Satan Shoes and Big Red Boot, is leaving to start a design firm with a focus on “making things physically with my hands.”

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 30, 2026

Music’s tempo is rather infectious, and children respond physically to both fast and slow speeds.

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin

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Related Words

• palpably
• substantially

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