metaphysical

[met-uh-fiz-i-kuhl] / ˌmɛt əˈfɪz ɪ kəl /

ADJECTIVE

not physical; without physical presence

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abstract abstruse esoteric mystical philosophical spiritual supernatural theoretical

WEAK

bodiless deep difficult discarnate eternal fundamental high-flown ideal immaterial impalpable incorporeal insubstantial intangible intellectual jesuitic nonmaterial nonphysical numinous oversubtle preternatural profound recondite superhuman superior supermundane suprahuman supramundane supranatural transcendental unearthly unfleshly universal unphysical unreal unsubstantial

Antonyms

STRONGEST

concrete factual obvious physical real

WEAK

material objective solid substantial

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The result is a metaphysical model that, at best, lacks clarity, and at worst obscures the very nature of reality.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

It’s 7:50 p.m. on a Tuesday as I enter the dimly lighted metaphysical supply store the Crooked Path.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 27, 2026

A final section uses a sort of metaphysical sleight of hand to blend the two eras, but once again something doesn’t quite connect.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

Where this story takes place — which metaphysical realm it’s actually set in — is skimmed over entirely.

From Salon • Mar. 8, 2026

My old friend Ork sat shaking his head in dismay, saying nothing, brooding, no doubt, on the dark metaphysical implications.

From "Grendel" by John Gardner

Vocabulary lists containing metaphysical

The Lightning Thief

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The Importance of Being Earnest

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100 SAT Words Beginning with "M"

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