English Reference
adjective

spatial

adj.
US /ˈspeɪʃəɫ/ UK /spˈeɪʃəl/ spa·tial

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    relating to the size, shape, and position of things in a physical area.

    pertaining to the nature of space or the relationship between objects within a physical dimension.

    Simple

    Playing with building blocks helps children develop their spatial awareness.

    In context

    The architect's design demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of spatial relationships, balancing open communal areas with private enclosures.

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun it modifies.

    Teacher's tip

    In academic writing, 'spatial' is frequently contrasted with 'temporal' (relating to time).

  2. 02 C1 Advanced TechnicalFormal Science

    relating to the area outside the Earth's atmosphere.

    pertaining to outer space or the cosmos; less common than 'cosmic' or 'space-related' in modern usage.

    Simple

    The scientists studied spatial dust collected during the mission.

    In context

    The probe was designed to measure spatial radiation levels beyond the protective influence of the Earth's magnetic field.

Usage spatial resolution


From Latin spatium + -al.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin spatium
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated