Physisch

Physisch is an adjective in German that denotes relation to the physical world, matter, or the body. It can describe tangible properties, bodily states, or phenomena governed by the laws of physics. The term derives from the Greek physis (nature) via Latin physica and the German noun Physik; the adjective form physisch developed in early modern German and remains common in scientific and formal language.

In everyday language, physisch is used for bodily or material aspects but “körperlich” is often preferred when referring to the human body. “Physische Eigenschaften” or “physische Beschaffenheit” describe measurable traits such as mass, volume, or temperature, while “psychisch” covers mental or emotional aspects. The contrast between physisch and psychisch is common in medicine, psychology, and philosophy.

In science, “physisch” designates the domain of physics or physical properties, as opposed to chemical or biological characteristics. Phrases such as “physische Größen” (physical quantities) and “physische Kräfte” (physical forces) appear in technical writing. The term also appears in discussions of physical health or phenomena, where it is contrasted with non-physical or mental dimensions.

See also: Physik, physische Eigenschaften, psychisch, Körper, Gesundheit.