: existing or occurring in reality : drawn from or drawing on actual events or situations
real-life problems
real-life drama

Examples of real-life in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Gain practical tips, hear real-life experiences, and leave feeling empowered to bring your writing to the world. Essence, 7 July 2025 Here’s everything to know about the real-life loves of the New Girl cast. Julie Tremaine, People.com, 6 July 2025 Robots are quickly becoming real-life solutions, and their promise has never felt more relevant. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2025 It’s designed to reflect real-life player health, forcing you to manage workloads realistically. Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 4 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for real-life

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of real-life was in 1838

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Cite this Entry

“Real-life.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/real-life. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

real-life

adjective
: happening in reality : being like real life

More from Merriam-Webster on real-life

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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