augmented reality

noun

|Updated on: 10 Jun 2018

Definition of augmented reality

: an enhanced version of reality created by the use of technology to overlay digital information on an image of something being viewed through a device (such as a smartphone camera); also : the technology used to create augmented reality

Recent Examples of augmented reality from the Web

For an outdoor enthusiast, the app can serve many modern functions, including utilizing augmented reality to show directions over a map, getting GPS data, and sharing coordinates.

— staff, The Christian Science Monitor, "Top Picks: Jess Williamson's 'Cosmic Wink,' 'Black Panther' on DVD and Blu-ray, and more," 1 June 2018
Qualcomm on Tuesday announced the launch of a new chip explicitly designed for standalone augmented reality and virtual reality devices: the Snapdragon XR1.

— jeff dunn, Ars Technica, "Qualcomm launches a new chip specifically for standalone AR and VR devices," 30 May 2018
CCS Insight forecasts 22 million virtual reality and augmented reality headsets and glasses of all types will be sold in 2018 — with fivefold growth to 121 million devices by 2022.

— mike freeman, sandiegouniontribune.com, "Qualcomm aims to spark virtual reality market with stand-alone AR/VR chip," 29 May 2018
With its recent acquisitions like hair color brand Pulp Riot and augmented reality beauty company Modiface, the beauty giant seems to be angling for the millennial market.

— leah prinzivalli, Allure, "Valentino Is Partnering With L'Oréal Paris on a Fragrance and Beauty Collection," 29 May 2018
But augmented reality—blending digital imagery with the physical world—may help surgeons keep their focus at critical moments during the task.

— sarah toy, WSJ, "Brain Surgeons Get a Better View From Augmented Reality," 28 May 2018
Major wireless carriers around the world are preparing to spend billions rolling out 5G networks, which enable new technologies such as faster internet access and augmented reality.

— bloomberg, latimes.com, "Chinese phonemaker ZTE near collapse after parts run out because of U.S. sanctions," 10 May 2018
Think virtual reality or augmented reality absent the hiccups or distracting lag that on today’s systems makes some people sick.

— edward c. baig, USA TODAY, "5G speed phones: We now know when they're coming, and where," 28 Feb. 2018
The company, based at Chicago tech hub 1871, creates virtual reality and augmented reality experiences that companies use to connect with customers.

— ally marotti, chicagotribune.com, "'Fortnite: Battle Royale' upended the video game world, and Chicago's game developers are trying to capture its magic," 11 May 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'augmented reality.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of augmented reality

1992

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

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