real time

¹

[ ree-uhl, reel ]

noun

1. Computers. the actual time elapsed in the performance of a computation by a computer, the result of the computation being required for the continuation of a physical process.
2. the actual time during which a process takes place or an event occurs.

real-time

²

[ ree-uhl-tahym, reel- ]

adjective

, Computers.

1. of or relating to applications in which the computer must respond as rapidly as required by the user or necessitated by the process being controlled.

real-time

adjective

1. denoting or relating to a data-processing system in which a computer receives constantly changing data, such as information relating to air-traffic control, travel booking systems, etc, and processes it sufficiently rapidly to be able to control the source of the data

real-time

1. A term used to describe computer systems that update information at the same rate as they receive data.

Word History and Origins

Origin of real time¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. in real time, Informal. at once; instantaneously.

Example Sentences

They are analysing the game in real time, watching replays to better understand what they have just witnessed with their own eyes, processing data to decide how best to adapt and make the next move.

From BBC

Singers and musicians will regularly drop in on Saturdays and interact with the film in real time.

From Los Angeles Times

It became the public square for live sports, because it was the only place where people could exchange ooohs and aaahs and complaints about an offensive coordinator’s play-calling in real time on a Sunday afternoon.

From Slate

It gives people only what they ask for, and it does so in real time.

From Slate

For reasons of “history” and professional responsibility, I decided to turn on the TV to confirm my worries in real time.

From Salon