real time
noun
: the actual time during which something takes place
the computer may partly analyze the data in real time (as it comes in)—
R. H. March
R. H. Marchchatted online in real time
real-time
adjective
Examples of real time in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The world watched on television in real time as Reagan refused to cancel his Strategic Defense Initiative and Gorbachev left empty-handed.
—Celeste A. Wallander, Foreign Affairs, 9 Sep. 2025
Dennis saw the changes at his local Starbucks taking hold in real time over the last six to nine months.
—Amelia Lucas, CNBC, 9 Sep. 2025
In commodities, geopolitical shocks compress supply chains in real time, driving unpredictable swings in futures and options pricing.
—Ashok Reddy, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025
For example, if a user is traveling and is around people who speak a different language, the new AirPods will listen to the dialogue around them and translate it in nearly real time.
—Greta Cross, USA Today, 9 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for real time
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Celeste A. Wallander, Foreign Affairs, 9 Sep. 2025
Dennis saw the changes at his local Starbucks taking hold in real time over the last six to nine months.
—Amelia Lucas, CNBC, 9 Sep. 2025
In commodities, geopolitical shocks compress supply chains in real time, driving unpredictable swings in futures and options pricing.
—Ashok Reddy, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025
For example, if a user is traveling and is around people who speak a different language, the new AirPods will listen to the dialogue around them and translate it in nearly real time.
—Greta Cross, USA Today, 9 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for real time
Cite this Entry
“Real time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/real%20time. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.
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