Dimension Meaning

UK /dɪˈmɛnʃən/
US /dɪˈmɛnʃən/
Word Definition
dimension meaning

Dimension Definition & Usage

noun

A measure or extent of space, such as length, width, height, or depth. In a more abstract sense, it refers to the various measurable properties or aspects of the world and universe.

Examples

  • "The three-dimensional nature of the room made it feel spacious and airy."
  • "Scientists have long speculated about the possibility of higher dimensions beyond our three-dimensional reality."
  • "This model helps us understand the spatial dimensions in physics."
  • "The dimension of the rectangle was given as 5 feet by 7 feet."
  • "She added more dimensions to the project, making it far more complex."
noun

An aspect or feature of a situation, process, or problem, often involving depth or complexity.

Examples

  • "The political dimension of the debate was ignored by the media."
  • "This issue has many dimensions that need to be carefully considered."
  • "He failed to address the emotional dimension of the argument."
  • "The cultural dimension of the conflict cannot be overlooked."
  • "Their relationship had a dimension of mutual respect, which helped it endure."
noun

A mathematical or physical property that defines the structure of a space, particularly in geometry and the theory of relativity.

Examples

  • "In physics, time is often considered as the fourth dimension alongside the three spatial dimensions."
  • "The idea of parallel universes involves multiple dimensions coexisting simultaneously."
  • "A flat plane can be considered as a two-dimensional object."
  • "In higher-dimensional space, the concepts of distance and location become far more abstract."
  • "String theory proposes the existence of up to eleven dimensions in the universe."

Cultural Context

The word 'dimension' originates from the Latin 'dimensionem', meaning measurement or extent. In its early uses, the word was primarily concerned with physical measurement but evolved to represent abstract, metaphorical, and technical concepts. Its popularity grew with the advent of modern physics, particularly in theories relating to space-time and relativity.

The Infinite Dimensions

Story

The Infinite Dimensions

Samantha had always been fascinated by the idea of dimensions, both the ones we can see and those hidden just beyond our perception. As a physicist, she spent her days investigating the depths of space and time, trying to understand the very fabric of the universe. But tonight, something different happened. She had spent hours in her lab, running simulations, when a strange pattern appeared on her computer screen. It wasn't like the usual results. It seemed to show a fifth dimension, something beyond the three we usually think of, even including time as a fourth. With a mix of excitement and apprehension, she adjusted the settings of the program, eager to explore further. As the simulation unfolded, she noticed that the 'dimension' it described wasn't purely physical—it seemed to tap into something far more abstract. It was a dimension of thought, an alternate way of looking at the very principles of reality itself. Her phone buzzed, breaking her concentration. It was a message from her colleague, Michael. 'Have you seen the results from the new theory? It's not just about spatial dimensions. There's something deeper here. Meet me.' Samantha was already gathering her things, her mind racing. She realized that 'dimension' could mean so much more than just length or height. It could be an entire framework for understanding the unseen forces in our lives—emotional, social, and even philosophical dimensions that shape our existence. At Michael's office, the conversation quickly turned to the latest theory about the multiverse. 'Each universe,' Michael explained, 'could represent a different dimension—a reality in which even the smallest details of our choices could lead to entirely different outcomes.' Samantha thought about her own life. How many dimensions did she carry with her? There was the professional dimension, her career as a scientist, the emotional dimension with Michael, who had become more than just a colleague, and the intellectual dimension that drove her every thought. It occurred to her that life itself was a series of intersecting dimensions, each one adding complexity and depth to the whole. 'What if we could access these dimensions?' she mused aloud. Michael smiled, his eyes reflecting the same curiosity that burned in hers. 'Maybe that's what we're trying to do—explore not just the physical dimensions, but all the other ones too.'

The Infinite Dimensions