when did physicality become a word

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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28-02-2025

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The word "physicality" might seem like a recent addition to the English lexicon, a product of modern academic discourse or perhaps a trendier synonym for "physical nature." However, its roots run deeper than you might expect. While its widespread usage is relatively recent, understanding its history requires exploring its etymological journey and the evolving understanding of the concept it represents.

The Genesis of "Physicality": From Physics to Personhood

The word "physicality" ultimately stems from the word "physical," which itself originates from the Greek word "physikos," meaning "related to nature." This connection to the natural world is key to understanding how "physicality" evolved. For centuries, "physical" described things pertaining to the material world – the tangible, the observable.

Initially, "physicality" wasn't used as a standalone word. The concept was expressed using phrases like "physical nature" or "physical characteristics." The transition from this descriptive phrasing to a single, concise noun was a gradual process.

The Rise of the Abstract: Defining "Physicality"

The shift towards using "physicality" as a distinct word coincided with a growing interest in abstract concepts within philosophy, art, and performance studies. As these fields developed, there was a need to articulate the essence of the physical.

Instead of merely stating that something was physical, scholars and critics sought to analyze and define the qualities inherent in physical existence. This required a term that could encompass the sensory experience, the presence, the impact – all those aspects that contribute to a holistic understanding of physical form and action.

This subtle shift in meaning – from describing the physical fact to analyzing the physical experience – was a crucial step in the word's evolution.

Pinpointing its Emergence in Written English

Precisely dating the first use of "physicality" is challenging. Early examples are scattered and infrequent. While comprehensive historical dictionaries may not pinpoint a definitive "first use," linguistic databases like Google Books Ngram Viewer provide valuable insights into the word's frequency over time. These tools reveal a noticeable increase in the usage of "physicality" starting in the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1960s onwards.

Context Matters: Disciplinary Influence on Usage

The increase in "physicality's" usage is partly due to its adoption by various academic disciplines. Performance studies, particularly, embraced the term to analyze the actor's physical presence on stage, exploring concepts like body language, movement, and spatial relationships. Similarly, art criticism used "physicality" to describe the tangible qualities of artworks, their texture, weight, and three-dimensionality.

In the later part of the 20th century and into the 21st century, "physicality" entered common parlance, particularly in fields related to sports, dance, and the performing arts. It became a convenient and concise way to discuss the impact of a physical presence or performance.

"Physicality" Today: A Word with Enduring Relevance

Today, "physicality" is firmly established in the English language, a testament to the ongoing need for nuanced vocabulary to describe increasingly complex concepts. Its meaning continues to evolve, influenced by ongoing discussions within philosophy, the arts, and other fields.

While we can't definitively say when someone first used "physicality," its rise to prominence mirrors broader cultural shifts toward a deeper appreciation of the body, its presence, and its impact on the world around us. The word is a reflection of this evolving understanding.