The meaning of VIRTUAL is being such in essence or effect though not formally recognized or admitted. How to use virtual in a sentence.

VIRTUAL definition: 1. almost a particular thing or quality: 2. created by computer technology and appearing to exist…. Learn more.

Virtual also commonly means simulated or extended by computer software. The word is used this way in virtual reality, which refers to a fully simulated environment.

Virtual objects and activities are generated by a computer to simulate real objects and activities.

Definition of virtual adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Define virtual. virtual synonyms, virtual pronunciation, virtual translation, English dictionary definition of virtual. adj. 1. Existing or resulting in essence or effect though not in actual fact, …

virtual (adj.) late 14c., "influencing by physical virtues or capabilities, effective with respect to inherent natural qualities," from Medieval Latin virtualis, from Latin virtus "excellence, potency, …

Sep 16, 2025 · A thing has a virtual existence when it has all the conditions necessary to its actual existence. The statue exists virtually in the brass or iron, the oak in the acorn.

There are 16 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word virtual, five of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Oct 24, 2023 · "Virtual" refers to something simulated or extended by computer software, while "digital" pertains to data expressed using digits, typically binary code.