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

The system uses inertial sensors to capture an operator’s physical movements and Unreal Engine to transfer them in real time to a CGI character. — Anna Marie De La Fuente, Variety, 29 Sep. 2026

Marketers can make billions of decisions in seconds—even in real time. — Chai Outmezguine, Forbes.com, 29 Sep. 2026

Onboard sensors continuously track wind, waves, currents, and ship orientation in real time, automatically firing thrusters to micro-adjust and keep the giant frozen in place. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 29 Sep. 2026

Crashing Out With Kail follows the reality star on her tour and promises to feature hotel room chaos, green room tension, business decisions made on the fly and a relationship playing out in real time while seven kids wait at home. — Kimberly Nordyke, HollywoodReporter, 28 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