spatial

Rarely spa·cial

[spey-shuhl]

adjective

1. of or relating to space, the three-dimensional realm or expanse in which all material objects are located and all events occur.

2. existing or occurring in space; having extension in space.

spatial

/ ˈspeɪʃəl, ˌspeɪʃɪˈælɪtɪ /

adjective

1. of or relating to space

2. existing or happening in space

Other Word Forms

• spatiality noun
• spatially adverb
• nonspatial adjective
• nonspatiality noun
• quasi-spatial adjective
• unspatial adjective
• unspatiality noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of spatial¹

First recorded in 1840–50; from Latin spati(um) space + -al ¹

Example Sentences

Previously, she had integrated spatial vocabulary casually into classroom by reminding children to put a basket “on” a shelf or to put their hands “behind” their back.

From Los Angeles Times

For me, music has always been a physical, spatial, and emotional experience before it’s an auditory one.

From Los Angeles Times

Conflict has increased along with spatial overlap, with most incidents involving “the intersection of black bears and attractants, such as food, garbage and livestock,” according to a state black bear management plan.

From Los Angeles Times

Mrs Nias said her sister-in-law could "only just" see over the dashboard and was having problems with spatial awareness.

From BBC

The piece, a frangipani branch from his grandmother’s former garden in the neighborhood, will be planted in the museum’s garden, crossing temporal and spatial boundaries between the institution and the artist.

From Los Angeles Times