—adj.
1 of or concerning the body (physical exercise; physical education).
2 of matter; material (both mental and physical force).
3 a of, or according to, the laws of nature (a physical impossibility). b belonging to physics (physical science).
—n. (in full physical examination) a medical examination to determine physical fitness.
Phrases and idioms:
physical chemistry the application of physics to the study of chemical behaviour. physical geography geography dealing with natural features. physical jerks colloq. physical exercises. physical science the sciences used in the study of inanimate natural objects, e.g. physics, chemistry, astronomy, etc. physical training exercises promoting bodily fitness and strength.
Derivatives:
physicality n. physically adv. physicalness n.
Etymology: ME f. med.L physicalis f. L physica (as PHYSIC)
Useful english dictionary. 2012.