: 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.
Ashlie Atkinson plays Mamie Fish, the wittiest member of late 19th-century high society on The Gilded Age, and also a real-life person from American history. Carson Blackwelder, People.com, 9 Aug. 2025 However, iRacing has major plans for its first-ever traditional video game, with more real-life drivers available to race with, realistic track options and much more. Joseph Wolkin, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2025 Napoli’s direction mimics the environment of a real-life social gathering, with some conversations happening simultaneously and live piano music occasionally underscoring the dialogue. Emily McClanathan, Chicago Tribune, 8 Aug. 2025 Selecting a real-life cultural moment as inspiration feels like a great way to marry an oddball sensibility with something at least potentially commercial. Todd Gilchrist, Variety, 8 Aug. 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 21 Aug. 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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