Word
spatial
Phoneticsspa·tial, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈspeɪʃəɫ/
UK/spˈeɪʃəl/
Definitions
01relating to physical space
B2 · Upper Intermediate Academic
adj. relating to the size, shape, and position of things in a physical area.
adj. pertaining to the nature of space or the relationship between objects within a physical dimension.
“Playing with building blocks helps children develop their spatial awareness.”
“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.
Teaching tip
In academic writing, 'spatial' is frequently contrasted with 'temporal' (relating to time).
Synonyms
Antonyms
02relating to outer space
C1 · Advanced Science Technical · Formal
adj. relating to the area outside the Earth's atmosphere.
adj. pertaining to outer space or the cosmos; less common than 'cosmic' or 'space-related' in modern usage.
“The scientists studied spatial dust collected during the mission.”
“The probe was designed to measure spatial radiation levels beyond the protective influence of the Earth's magnetic field.”
Antonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “spatial” in context.
Etymology
From Latin spatium + -al.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- 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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/spatial