rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryvirtualComputer-based
adjective

virtual

VUR-choo-ul/ˈvɜːrtʃuəl/

Created or provided by computers rather than physically present.

The headset lets her explore a virtual landscape shown on the screen.

A young Black woman wearing a virtual-reality headset reaches toward a simulated luminous three-dimensional landscape visible as a small computer display beside her; the real room is plain, and the screen contains only visual scenery, no letters or interface text.
Etymology
virtuLatinexcellence, efficacy, power
+alLatinrelating to

The root’s sense of efficacy led to “existing in effect rather than actually,” probably through “capable of producing an effect.” In computing, software produces that effect without the corresponding physical object.

In context

CareerVidz2:56
there are no distractions in your home or office where the virtual interview is going to take place so tell people in the building that you are having an online interview
TOP 10 VIRTUAL JOB INTERVIEW TIPS! (How to PASS an Online Zoom, Skype, or HireVue Job Interview!)

More examples

  • They held a virtual meeting.
  • The training uses virtual equipment.
  • Students toured a virtual reconstruction of the building.

Forms

virtual

Similar words

simulated
Simulated need not be computer-generated.
online
Online means network-connected, not necessarily a simulation.