First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
virtual
adjective vir·tu·al \ˈvər-chə-wəl, -chəl; ˈvərch-wəl\
: very close to being something without actually being it
: existing or occurring on computers or on the Internet
Full Definition of VIRTUAL
1
: being such in essence or effect though not formally recognized or admitted <a virtual dictator>
2
: of, relating to, or using virtual memory
3
: of, relating to, or being a hypothetical particle whose existence is inferred from indirect evidence <virtual photons> — compare real 3
4
: being on or simulated on a computer or computer network <print or virtual books> <a virtual keyboard>: as a : occurring or existing primarily online <virtual shopping> b : of, relating to, or existing within a virtual reality <a virtual tour>
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Origin of VIRTUAL
Middle English, efficacious, potential, from Medieval Latin virtualis, from Latin virtus strength, virtue
VIRTUAL Defined for Kids
virtual
adjective vir·tu·al \ˈvər-chə-wəl\
Definition of VIRTUAL for Kids
: being in effect but not in fact or name : close to but not quite something <Rain is a virtual certainty today.>
— vir·tu·al·ly adverb <This animal is rare and has virtually disappeared in the wild.>
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