virtual reality

noun

: an artificial environment which is experienced through sensory stimuli (such as sights and sounds) provided by a computer and in which one's actions partially determine what happens in the environment
also : the technology used to create or access a virtual reality

Examples of virtual reality 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.
Still, youthful rebellion in virtual reality looks great and the concept of online escapes resonates in an increasingly intense real world. Brian Truitt, USA Today, 20 June 2025 While this article focuses primarily on in-person experiential marketing, which happens in real spaces with real people, advancing technology is also making powerful digital experiential moments possible through virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and immersive online platforms. Renae Gregoire, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025 The location will also have virtual reality games where fans can play the main character inside the worlds of Netflix programs, watch fan events on a big screen inside a theater and play mini golf inspired by programming. Wendy Lee, Los Angeles Times, 17 June 2025 If true, the Toronto star might be the first to make that vision a virtual reality. Amber Corrine, VIBE.com, 13 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for virtual reality

Word History

First Known Use

1987, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of virtual reality was in 1987

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Cite this Entry

“Virtual reality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/virtual%20reality. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

virtual reality

noun
: an artificial environment which is experienced through sights and sounds provided by a computer and in which one's actions partly decide what happens in the environment

More from Merriam-Webster on virtual reality

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