tubular

adjective

tu·​bu·​lar ˈtü-byə-lər 

ˈtyü-

1

a

: having the form of or consisting of a tube

a tubular calyx

b

: made or provided with tubes

2

: of, relating to, or sounding as if produced through tubes

Examples of tubular in a Sentence

a radiator of tubular construction

Recent Examples on the Web

Scored only by drum machine, a single synth, chimes, and tubular bells, the song’s straightforward tale sounds dramatically magnificent in spite of its spareness. —Billie Bugara, Pitchfork, 26 Apr. 2026

Their charming tubular flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds. —Teresa Woodard, Midwest Living, 21 Apr. 2026

The flower's beautiful, tubular blooms put on a lovely show from spring through autumn. —Helena Madden, Martha Stewart, 21 Apr. 2026

The intensely scarlet, tubular flowers of this native perennial open in late spring. —Patricia S York, Southern Living, 21 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1673, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for tubular

• peritubular

Kids Definition

tubular

adjective

tu·​bu·​lar ˈt(y)ü-byə-lər 

1

: having the form of or consisting of a tube

2

: made or provided with tubes

Medical Definition

tubular

adjective

tu·​bu·​lar ˈt(y)ü-byə-lər 

1

: having the form of or consisting of a tube

2

: of, relating to, or sounding as if produced through a tube or tubule

tubular rales