physically

American  

[fiz-ik-lee] / ˈfɪz ɪk li /

adverb

1. relating to the body or its appearance.

   He is not physically attractive.

2. according to what exists in the physical world as perceived by the senses.

   It's not physically possible because of the laws of gravity.

3. in a way that involves rough body contact or strenuous physical activity: a physically demanding sport.

   a physically abusive spouse;

   a physically demanding sport.

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Etymology

Origin of physically

First recorded in 1580–90; physical ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

According to Danso, the findings could have important real-world applications for athletes, coaches, and people trying to stay physically active.

From Science Daily • May 9, 2026

"Coming on to the clay courts is much more physically demanding than potentially other surfaces but I want to come back 100% ready," Raducanu said.

From BBC • May 5, 2026

Copeland: Yeah, Stanley, you and I got to go out there and bang some stuff physically.

From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2026

Space and cyber capabilities are physically rooted in ground infrastructure.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 3, 2026

The mention of our grandmother made me physically jerk in my seat—it was so reminiscent of what La Llorona had said I should do.

From "Summer of the Mariposas" by Guadalupe García McCall

Related Words

• palpably
• substantially