virtual

Created using computers to represent a real place, thing, or experience.

• We took a virtual tour of the museum.
• Players explore a virtual world together.
• Have you tried a virtual reality headset?

Similar words: simulated, computer-generated

Opposites: physical, real

Common phrases: virtual reality, virtual world, virtual tour, virtual classroom

Almost complete or certain, although not quite.

• The company has a virtual monopoly.
• Her election is now a virtual certainty.
• The village fell into virtual silence.

Similar words: near, almost total

Common phrases: virtual monopoly, virtual certainty, virtual silence

Having the same effect as something, even though it is not officially or actually that thing.

• The agreement was a virtual victory for the workers.
• Without transport, she became a virtual prisoner at home.
• He was the virtual leader, despite having no official title.

Similar words: effective, de facto

Common phrases: virtual victory, virtual prisoner, virtual leader, virtual army