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

Smart glasses capture what's in front of the user, the motion-tracking suit reads their posture in real time, and the AI processes all of that to generate movement instructions tailored to the specific moment. —Omar Kardoudi april 13, New Atlas, 13 Apr. 2026

As the race unfolds in real time, there’s clowning, collisions, sabotage, surprises, comedy, chaos and more. —Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Apr. 2026

So there is a risk assessment that folks are doing in real time. —Ximena Bustillo, NPR, 13 Apr. 2026

In keeping it simple and reflecting on his old hits through the portal where he was discovered, the persona of Justin Bieber was reassessed and deconstructed in real time after years of mythos and controversy. —Reanna Cruz, Vulture, 13 Apr. 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