real-life

adjective

ˈrē(-ə)l-ˈlīf How to pronounce real-life (audio)
Synonyms of real-lifenext
: 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.
Any resemblance between the TikTok series and the real-life version of Chairman Tom Ricketts meeting his wife, Cece, in the bleachers is purely coincidental, a Cubs source said. — Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 1 Sep. 2026 The series is inspired by the real-life phenomenon of fans meeting and sparking a connection at Cubs games. — William Earl, Variety, 31 Aug. 2026 The toy switches between these functions to mimic a real-life hunt, and the rope attached to the ball only amplifies the fun of the chase. — Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 30 Aug. 2026 The Looney Tunes animation–live action hybrid film is an inspired David-and-Goliath tale about the overreach and cruelty of corporations in the modern age, and its journey to release is a real-life corollary. — Angelica Jade Bastién, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for real-life

See All Rhymes for real-life

Browse Nearby Words

realliance
real-life
real live
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Real-life.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/real-life. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

real-life

adjective
: happening in reality : being like real life

More from Merriam-Webster on real-life

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for real-life

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