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

Modern crypto-agility also requires organizations to answer operational questions in near-real time. — Evgeny Gervis, Forbes.com, 22 Sep. 2026

Live streamers adjust their performance and content in real time based on their perception of the mood in the live chat from their viewers. — Literary Hub, 22 Sep. 2026

The notice of claim alleges that not only was there no physical police presence, no one was watching the camera feeds as the suspect came and went in real time. — Michael Ruiz, FOXNews.com, 22 Sep. 2026

The sensors work by collecting large amounts of temperature data in real time. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 22 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