Physique refers to the shape, size, and condition of a person's body, especially how strong or athletic they look. When someone has an impressive physique, you might notice their muscular arms, strong legs, or overall fit appearance. Athletes often develop powerful physiques through years of training: a gymnast's physique shows compact strength and flexibility, while a swimmer's physique typically features broad shoulders and lean muscles.

The word describes how our bodies look on the outside: the visible structure and development of muscles, the proportions of different body parts, and overall physical appearance. Two people might be the same height, but one might have a runner's physique while the other has a wrestler's physique.

You'll often hear physique used when talking about fitness or sports. A ballet dancer works to maintain the elegant physique needed for performance. A basketball player might have a tall, lean physique that helps them move quickly on the court. When people talk about someone's physique, they're usually describing the overall impression their body makes: strong, slight, stocky, lanky, or athletic. Your physique changes as you grow and develop, shaped by both genetics and how you use your body.