real-world

adjective

ˈrē(-ə)l-ˈwər(-ə)ld 

: existing or occurring in reality : drawn from or drawing on actual events or situations : real-life

a real-world example

… the complex relationship between a word and the real-world thing it labels.

—Jean Aitchison

Digital objects aren't bound by the same constraints as real-world objects—that is, broadly speaking, the whole point of digital objects—but they're often made to look like real-world objects anyway.

—Lev Grossman

… combine the rigors of academics with the soothing realities of real-world applications.

—Ricardo Bilton

The paintings are essentially abstract, but they don't feel abstract. They feature, besides passages of figurative drawing, a real-world aura …

—Peter Schjeldahl

Examples of real-world in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Designed for practical real-world deployment, the T1 combines customizable AI computing, human-like dexterity, and flexible application support across multiple industries. —Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 28 May 2026

Kalshi has exploded in popularity since its inception, in large part due to its facilitation of bets on real-world event outcomes. —News Desk, Artforum, 28 May 2026

Decision capability is built experientially through making decisions in real-world conditions. —Angela C. Hill, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026

Paul and Nick are both excellent choices, not only as performers, but also because of their real-world personas. —Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 28 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1963, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for real-world

• lifeworld
• unfurled
• curled
• furled
• hurled
• knurled
• swirled
• twirled
• whirled
• whorled
• world
• netherworld