metaphysical

adjective

ˌme-tə-ˈfi-zi-kəl How to pronounce metaphysical (audio)
Definition of metaphysicalnext
1
as in theoretical
dealing with or expressing a quality or idea a work that deals with such metaphysical questions as the very nature of knowledge

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in supernatural
of, relating to, or being part of a reality beyond the observable physical universe belief in a metaphysical world beyond the one in which we live

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of metaphysical For me, the metaphysical questions always come first, and the story emerges organically from the questions. — Deborah Treisman, New Yorker, 19 July 2026 This spiritual, metaphysical, and downright weird show is ostensibly about a nun’s quest to find and destroy the Holy Grail, which will result in the deactivation of the powerful, pervasive AI that gives the series its name. — Sara Netzley, Entertainment Weekly, 2 July 2026 In both the real and metaphysical locations of the show, the backgrounds are all painted by hand, something which was pointed out took up a lot of time due to the number of paintings in the show and due to the number of montages. — Kambole Campbell, Variety, 25 June 2026 In the 18th century Samuel Johnson coined the term metaphysical poets to criticize Donne, John Cleveland, and Abraham Cowley. — René Ostberg, Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for metaphysical
Recent Examples of Synonyms for metaphysical
  1. theoretical
  2. supernatural
  3. abstract
  4. paranormal
  5. conceptual
  6. transcendental
  7. mental
  8. mystical
Adjective
  • There is a theoretical possibility that a team taking too long over five simultaneous substitutions could be forced to play with six for a while, which could be fun.
    — Graham Scott, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026
  • Errors reach combat The risks are no longer purely theoretical.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of theoretical
Adjective
  • In fact, the team had a full biscuit guide to ensure the lions always looked just right—never supernatural or oversaturated.
    — Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 19 Aug. 2026
  • The film blends contemporary Mandopop, ancient mythology, comedy and supernatural adventure.
    — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of supernatural
Adjective
  • Hushcha has spent more than 60 years making abstract and figurative works in the Twin Cities.
    — Daniel Cassady for ARTnews, Robb Report, 21 Aug. 2026
  • ChatGPT, however, rendered the scene using sterile, abstract terminology.
    — Billy J. Stratton, The Conversation, 21 Aug. 2026
Definition of abstract
Adjective
  • Like any group with more than 50 members, there have been a few paranormal personality clashes.
    — Megan De Mar, CBS News, 21 Aug. 2026
  • With the new immersive sound system, orchestra impact becomes a matter of technology, giving individual instruments paranormal prominence and turning full orchestra glory into a sensual sound bath.
    — Classical Music Critic, Los Angeles Times, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of paranormal
Adjective
  • As previously announced, the event which raises funds for amfAR’s mission to support HIV research and improve global health, will also honor conceptual and performance artist Marina Abramović with amfAR’s Award of Inspiration.
    — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 21 Aug. 2026
  • An art adviser who doesn’t like Lalanne or the type of person who is drawn to them said that their worst pieces have no conceptual content.
    — Marisa Meltzer, Vanity Fair, 21 Aug. 2026
Definition of conceptual
Adjective
  • As many an influencer has learned, that identity bestows the transcendental rewards of unconditional love—and plenty of new branding opportunities.
    — Annie Joy Williams, The Atlantic, 28 July 2026
  • Stablecoins have become one of crypto’s most transcendental inventions.
    — Camila Grigera Naón, Fortune, 15 July 2026
Definition of transcendental
Adjective
  • Marshall had been charged with defrauding his mother’s estate of millions by inducing her to change her will in his favor after her mental capacity had faded.
    — Robert D. Mcfadden, Chicago Tribune, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Family businesses can build in legal safeguards, such as mandatory retirement ages or mental capacity evaluations, according to Rahn.
    — Hayley Cuccinello, CNBC, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of mental
Adjective
  • Musashi becomes unwillingly bound to the mystical Oni Gauntlet.
    — Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2026
  • The family lived in Ury, France, south of Paris, near Fontainebleau, which is famous for its royal palace and almost mystical woods.
    — Marisa Meltzer, Vanity Fair, 21 Aug. 2026
Definition of mystical

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Cite this Entry

“Metaphysical.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/metaphysical. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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