real-life

adjective

ˈrē(-ə)l-ˈlīf 

: 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

Furious is a series created by Liz Meriwether, who is best known for her beloved sitcom New Girl but also recently told stories about two complex, real-life women in The Dropout (Elizabeth Holmes) and Dying for Sex (Molly Kochan). — Erin Qualey, Vulture, 27 July 2026

Wacky action hijinks ensue, many involving real-life versions of some of Matchbox’s classic toy cars. — Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 26 July 2026

The simulator has options such as target practice, zombie apocalypse and even real-life self-defense scenarios. — Shannon Tyler, Idaho Statesman, 25 July 2026

Here’s everything to know about the real-life loves of the Ransom Canyon cast. — Francesca Gariano, PEOPLE, 25 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for real-life

• alewife
• birdlife
• folklife
• housewife
• jackknife
• midlife
• midwife
• nightlife
• penknife
• wildlife
• afterlife
• pocketknife

Kids Definition

real-life

adjective

: happening in reality : being like real life