actuality

noun

ac·​tu·​al·​i·​ty ˌak-chə-ˈwa-lə-tē How to pronounce actuality (audio)
ˌak-shə-
plural actualities
1
: the quality or state of being actual
2
: something that is actual : fact, reality
possible risks which have been seized upon as actualitiesT. S. Eliot
Phrases
in actuality
: in actual fact

Examples of actuality in a Sentence

The actuality was quite different from the theory. the actuality of the Abominable Snowman is not taken seriously by scientists
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.
In actuality, they are developed to benefit a select few. Michelle Benegas, Twin Cities, 1 Nov. 2024 In actuality, however, the idea has a wide and deep intellectual history. Alex Rivera, Los Angeles Times, 1 Nov. 2024 In actuality, the $750 payment is the initial form of support disaster survivors may receive, with additional types of assistance available thereafter. Rebecca Beitsch, The Hill, 1 Nov. 2024 In actuality, voting machines are difficult to hack. Vittoria Elliott, WIRED, 31 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for actuality 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English actualite "capacity for action, effective power," borrowed from Medieval Latin āctuālitāt-, āctuālitās, from Late Latin āctuālis actual + Latin -itāt-, -itās -ity

First Known Use

1587, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of actuality was in 1587

Dictionary Entries Near actuality

Cite this Entry

“Actuality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/actuality. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024.

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