fourth dimension

noun

1. Physics, Mathematics. a dimension in addition to length, width, and depth, used so as to be able to employ geometrical language in discussing phenomena that depend on four variables:

   Time is considered a fourth dimension for locating points in space-time.

2. something beyond the kind of normal human experience that can be explained scientifically:

   The story deals with ESP and other excursions into the fourth dimension.

fourth dimension

noun

1. the dimension of time, which is necessary in addition to three spatial dimensions to specify fully the position and behaviour of a point or particle
2. the concept in science fiction of a dimension in addition to three spatial dimensions, used to explain supernatural phenomena, events, etc

fourth dimension

/ fôrth /

1. Time regarded as a coordinate dimension. A fourth dimension is required by relativity theory, along with three spatial dimensions, to specify completely the location of any event.

Derived Forms

• ˌfourth-diˈmensional, adjective

Other Words From

• fourth-di·mension·al adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of fourth dimension¹

First recorded in 1870–75