I. ˈfizə̇kəl, -zēk- adjective
Etymology: Middle English phisycal, from Medieval Latin physicalis medicinal, physical, from Latin physica study of nature + -alis -al — more at physics
1.
a. archaic : of or relating to medicine or the practice of medicine
b.
(1) obsolete : curing or alleviating ill health : beneficial to health
(2) archaic : used in medicine
c. obsolete : needing or having medical treatment : ill
d. archaic : practicing medicine
2.
a. : of or belonging to all created existences in nature : relating to or in accordance with the laws of nature
b. : of or relating to natural or material things as opposed to things mental, moral, spiritual, or imaginary : material , natural
labor, in the physical world, is … employed in putting objects in motion — J.S.Mill
3.
a. : of, relating to, concerned with, or devoted to natural science
b. : of or relating to physics : characterized or produced by the forces and operations of physics : employed in the processes of physics
physical changes
physical laws
physical forces
4.
a. : of or relating to the body
physical strength
— often opposed to mental
b. : concerned or preoccupied with the body and its needs : carnal , lusty
a purely physical person
Synonyms: see bodily , material
II. noun
( -s )
: physical examination
III. adjective
: characterized by forceful physical contact or rough play
a physical hockey game