# spatial

/ˈspeɪʃəɫ/ (US) · /spˈeɪʃəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spatial
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. relating to physical space

adjective · CEFR B2 · Academic

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

For teachers: 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).

### 2. relating to outer space

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical · Formal

relating to the area outside the Earth's atmosphere.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The architect has excellent spatial awareness.
- Video games often help children develop better spatial skills by requiring them to navigate complex 3D environments.
- The urban planner's proposal addressed the spatial distribution of public parks to ensure that every resident lived within a ten-minute walk of a green space.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.