virtual

UK: ˈvɜːtʃuəl | US: ˈvɜːrtʃuəl

Definition

  1. adj. having the essence or effect of something without the physical form (e.g., virtual reality)

  2. adj. nearly or almost the thing described (e.g., a virtual stranger)

  3. adj. (computing) simulated or extended by software (e.g., virtual machine)

Structure
virtu <excellence, from Latin *virtus*>al <adjective suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin virtus (meaning "excellence, moral strength"), virtual originally described qualities or effects that were morally or functionally equivalent to the real thing. By the 15th century, it evolved to mean "in essence but not form." The computing sense emerged in the 1950s, reflecting simulated environments that replicate real-world functions.

Examples

  1. The meeting was held in a virtual space using VR headsets.

  2. She is a virtual expert in coding after years of self-study.

  3. The virtual assistant handled all scheduling tasks efficiently.

  4. His silence gave virtual consent to the proposal.

  5. Virtual currencies like Bitcoin lack physical form but hold real value.