Wiktionary:Word of the day/2023/July 24

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virtual adj

In effect or essence, rather than in fact or reality; also, imitated, simulated. For practical purposes, though not technically; almost complete, very near. (computing) Operating using a computer and/or online rather than physically present. Simulated in a computer and/or online. (object-oriented programming) Of a class member: capable of being overridden with a different implementation in a subclass. (mechanics) Pertaining to a theoretical infinitesimal velocity in a mechanical system that does not violate the system's constraints; also, of other physical quantities: resulting from such a velocity. (physics) Pertaining to a theoretical quality of something which would produce an observable effect if counteracting factors such as friction are disregarded; specifically, of a head of water: producing a certain pressure if friction, etc., is disregarded. (optics) Chiefly in virtual focus: of a focus or point: from which light or other radiation apparently emanates; also, of an image: produced by light that appears to diverge from a point beyond the reflecting or refracting surface. (particle physics) Pertaining to particles in temporary existence due to the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. (quantum mechanics) Of a quantum state: having an intermediate, short-lived, and unobservable nature. (obsolete) Having efficacy or power due to some natural qualities. (specifically, also figuratively) Of a plant or other thing: having strong healing powers; virtuous. Having the power of acting without the agency of some material or measurable thing; possessing invisible efficacy. Producing, or able to produce, some result; effective, efficacious. Synonym of virtuous (“full of virtue; having excellent moral character”) virtual n (uncountable) Preceded by the: that which is imitated or simulated rather than existing in fact or reality; (countable) an instance of this. (uncountable) That which is simulated in a computer and/or online; virtual reality; (countable) an instance of this; specifically (gambling), a computer simulation of a real-world sport such as horse racing. (countable, programming) A virtual (adjective sense 3.3) member function of a class.

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