virtual

The word “virtual” means existing in effect, though not officially or in a strict physical sense. In plain terms, either "practically true, even if not officially so" or "existing online/on a computer rather than physically.".

“Virtual” is pronounced VURT-shoorl (/ˈvɜɹt͡ʃuəl/ in IPA).

Here is “virtual” used in a sentence: “After the scandal, he became a virtual prisoner in his own home.”

Words with a similar meaning to “virtual” include cyberreal.

“Virtual” is an adjective.

The word “virtual” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin virtualis, "having power or effect," from Latin virtus ("power, virtue").

“Virtual” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

“Virtual” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: existing in effect, though not officially or in a strict physical sense.

Virtual means existing in effect or practice but not in a strict, official, or physical sense, as in a virtual monopoly. Actual means real and factual, so the two are often contrasted: something can be a virtual certainty without being an actual, confirmed fact yet.

A virtual meeting is conducted through a computer or online rather than face to face, with participants joining from separate locations. An in-person meeting takes place physically in the same room, so virtual specifically signals that the interaction happens over a digital connection.

Virtual means almost or effectively when it describes something true in effect but not officially, as in "a virtual standstill" or "the virtual leader of the party." The online meaning applies only when technology is involved, such as virtual reality or a virtual classroom.