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

The crystals' narrow and light-translucent structures enable researchers to monitor the collection and condensation of fog droplets in real time by using light.

From Science Daily

Having recognized perhaps that this wasn’t exactly a jazz crowd, André helpfully explained that he and the band were improvising in real time: “Everything we play every night, we make it up,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

The 35-year-old was listening to them in real time as they co-ordinated their movements and the rooftop lookout beefed about how cold he was.

From BBC

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