virtual Meaning, Definition & Usage

adjective satellite being actually such in almost every respect
practical.
- a practical failure
- the once elegant temple lay in virtual ruin
adjective satellite existing in essence or effect though not in actual fact
- a virtual dependence on charity
- a virtual revolution
- virtual reality

Cf. F. virtuel. See Virtue.

Having the power of acting or of invisible efficacy without the agency of the material or sensible part; potential; energizing.
Heat and cold have a virtual transition, without communication of substance. Bacon.

Every kind that lives, Fomented by his virtual power, and warmed. Milton.
Being in essence or effect, not in fact; as, the virtual presence of a man in his agent or substitute.
A thing has a virtual existence when it has all the conditions necessary to its actual existence. Fleming.

To mask by slight differences in the manners a virtual identity in the substance. De Quincey.