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

This is combined with the company’s Cognitive Processor XR to enhance depth, contrast, and clarity in real time. — Prakhar Khanna, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026

During remote operations, each robot can reproduce the movements of a human operator in real time. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 22 Aug. 2026

For instance, Dutch chocolate giant Tony’s Chocolonely digitally tracks every cocoa bean in its supply chain in real time. — Melanie Stetson Freeman, Christian Science Monitor, 22 Aug. 2026

The status updates will show up in real time as the testing progresses, and the final reports, certificates, and structured test results will appear automatically. — Cleo Levin, Footwear News, 21 Aug. 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