Virtual

Quick meaning: Virtual is an adjective meaning In effect or essence, rather than in fact or reality; also, imitated, simulated.

Meaning

In effect or essence, rather than in fact or reality; also, imitated, simulated.

More Meanings

1. For practical purposes, though not technically; almost complete, very near.
2. Operating using a computer and/or online rather than physically present.
3. Simulated in a computer and/or online.
4. Of a class member: capable of being overridden with a different implementation in a subclass.
5. (mechanics) Pertaining to a theoretical infinitesimal velocity in a mechanical system that does not violate the system's constraints; also, of other physical quantities: resulting from such a velocity.
6. Pertaining to a theoretical quality of something which would produce an observable effect if counteracting factors such as friction are disregarded; specifically, of a head of water: producing a certain pressure if friction, etc., is disregarded.
7. Chiefly in virtual focus: of a focus or point: from which light or other radiation apparently emanates; also, of an image: produced by light that appears to diverge from a point beyond the reflecting or refracting surface.

Example Sentences

The angry peasants were a virtual army as they attacked the castle.

In fact a defeat on the battlefield, Tet was a virtual victory for the North, owing to its effect on public opinion.

Virtual addressing allows computer applications to believe that there is much more physical memory than actually exists.

VIRTUAL is opposed to actual.— […] A thing has a virtual existence when it has all the conditions necessary to its actual existence. The statue exists virtually in the brass or iron, the oak in the acorn.

Word Forms

• virtuall
• virtuals

Synonyms for virtual

Depending on context, synonyms include cyberreal, virtuous, practical.

Antonyms for virtual

Common opposites include actual, real, true.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include practical, realistic, essential, simulated, quasi, fictional.

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