actuality

noun

ac·​tu·​al·​i·​ty ˌak-chə-ˈwa-lə-tē How to pronounce actuality (audio)
ˌak-shə-
plural actualities
1
: the quality or state of being actual
2
: something that is actual : fact, reality
possible risks which have been seized upon as actualitiesT. S. Eliot
Phrases
in actuality
: in actual fact

Examples of actuality in a Sentence

The actuality was quite different from the theory. the actuality of the Abominable Snowman is not taken seriously by scientists
Recent Examples on the Web In actuality, the position is likely illegitimate, and be especially wary if it's supposed to be paid back under the table. Hannah Ma, Forbes, 13 Sep. 2024 In actuality, someone shot at the cottage every night, according to Ali’s physician, Dr. Ferdie Pacheco. Kalia Richardson, Rolling Stone, 12 Sep. 2024 In actuality, however, this does not appear to be the case. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 15 Aug. 2024 Brat Summer is a state of mind, but in actuality, the season will come to an end in about a month. Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 14 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for actuality 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'actuality.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English actualite "capacity for action, effective power," borrowed from Medieval Latin āctuālitāt-, āctuālitās, from Late Latin āctuālis actual + Latin -itāt-, -itās -ity

First Known Use

1587, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of actuality was in 1587

Dictionary Entries Near actuality

Cite this Entry

“Actuality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/actuality. Accessed 5 Oct. 2024.

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