real time

noun

Updated on: 14 May 2018

Definition of real time

: 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

adjective

Recent Examples of real time from the Web

In the age of the internet, the government’s response could be monitored nationwide in real time.

— The Economist, "A huge earthquake in China ten years ago was a turning point," 10 May 2018
In support of shark conservation, Ocearch’s app tracks sharks tagged with satellite tracking technology in real time.

— brittany britto, baltimoresun.com, "10 useful apps for your beach trip," 10 May 2018
On the wall, cheap cameras sat atop a monitor like a row of ducks, measuring the environment through motion, frequencies, and depth, and displaying the data in real time on the screen.

— elizabeth stinson, WIRED, "What Artists Can Teach Us About Making Technology More Human," 10 May 2018
The flights will be monitored in real time at a mission control center, giving operators the ability to intercede in case of abnormal conditions.

— jennifer van grove, sandiegouniontribune.com, "San Diego's winning drone bid: A look at the city's ambitious plans," 10 May 2018
In other states, it is needed only if an investigator wants the data in real time.

— New York Times, "Service Meant to Monitor Inmates’ Calls Could Track You, Too," 10 May 2018
Now, the company is grappling publicly, in real time, with how to change its corporate culture.

— cam wolf, GQ, "Charting the Turnover At Nike Over the Past Two Months," 9 May 2018
What’s new in Newark is the ability to make the cameras available to the public in real time.

— jonathan lai, Philly.com, "Livestreaming police surveillance video sparks privacy, racial profiling concerns," 9 May 2018
But for Gala first-timer SZA, getting to see Queen Rih grace the red carpet in real time was clearly an experience of a different caliber.

— megan mccluskey, Time, "SZA's Immaculate Reaction to Pope Rihanna Was the Highlight of the 2018 Met Gala," 8 May 2018

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

First Known Use of real time

1953

in the meaning defined above

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real time

noun

Definition of real time for Students

: the actual time during which something takes place

We chatted online in real time.

—

real-time

adjective

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