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

chatted online in real time

real-time

ˈrē(-ə)l-ˈtīm 

adjective

Examples of real time in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Also, because the threat was able to be confirmed in real time, the emergency dispatch queued the event as a priority crime in progress rather than a low-priority unverified alarm and saved the day. — Robert Messer, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2026

Continuity offers the Vikings a way to assess the opponent’s game plan in real time, then adapt. — Alec Lewis, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026

The latest versions use other airborne Russian drones to transmit signals and even video feeds, in real time, back to their pilots inside Russia. — Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 14 Sep. 2026

Nearly 3,600 predominantly healthy adults logged their meals in real time through a mobile app and wore devices capable of distinguishing among sleep stages. — Lauren Manaker Ms, HEALTH, 14 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for real time

• airtime
• bedtime
• daytime
• downtime
• enzyme
• halftime
• lifetime
• longtime
• lunchtime
• mealtime
• meantime
• nighttime