physique
fih-ZEEK
/fɪˈziːk/
the form, size, and development of a person's body.
Physique refers to the 'sculpted' or 'structural' look of a body, usually implying some level of fitness or athletic development.
The story behind the word. Borrowed from the French 'physique', which came from the Greek 'physikos', meaning 'natural'. It originally referred to the 'natural constitution' of a person's body.
Word relationships
- build: A more common, less formal word for the shape of a body.
- figure: Usually used for women, focusing on the outline or curves.
Commonly confused with
- physics: Physics is the study of matter and energy; physique is the physical form of a human.
Word family
- physical (adjective): Relating to the body.
Collocations
- muscular physique
- athletic physique
- slender physique
Example sentences
- "The swimmer’s powerful physique was the result of years of training in the pool." Describing an athlete.
- "He had a lean, wiry physique that was perfectly suited for long-distance running." A comment on body types.
Memory hook
Physique: 'Physical-Unique'—everyone has a unique physical build. The body's architecture.
When not to use
Don't use it to describe an animal; it's almost exclusively used for humans.
Fun facts
- The term 'physique' became popular in the 19th century with the rise of 'physical culture' and the first bodybuilding competitions.
Related words
Explore more words
musculature, deportment, anthropometric, posture, corporeal, attire
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