English Reference

Word

sculptural

Phoneticssculp·tural

US/ˈskəɫptʃɝəɫ/

UK/skˈʌlptʃəɹəl/

Definition

adj. having a shape or form that looks like a sculpture. You use this to describe things that are three-dimensional and look like they were carved or molded.

adj. having a three-dimensional form or quality that resembles a sculpture. Often describes objects or natural formations that appear to have been shaped by an artist's hand.

Examples

“The large stone has a very sculptural shape.”

“The architect designed the building with a sculptural facade that mimics the natural curves of the surrounding hills.”

“While the building's exterior is highly sculptural, its interior remains minimalist, creating a striking contrast between the two spaces.”

Examples

simple

“The large stone has a very sculptural shape.”

contextual

“The architect designed the building with a sculptural facade that mimics the natural curves of the surrounding hills.”

complex

“While the building's exterior is highly sculptural, its interior remains minimalist, creating a striking contrast between the two spaces.”

Real-World Examples

“The little clusters of plastic detritus – discarded single-use spoons and cups tied together – form sculptural mini-galaxies out of rubbish.”
The Guardian 11 Sept 2026
“This is where Joo creates much of her art – surface embroideries and sculptural 3D creatures inspired by Korean myth, philosophy and the relationship between humans and the natural world.”
The Guardian 1 Sept 2026

Word family

ADJECTIVE

sculptural(C1)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
Frequency
Occasional
Level
C1 · Advanced
Updated

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English Reference