augmented reality

American  

[awg-men-tid ree-al-i-tee, awg-men-tid] / ˈɔgˌmɛn tɪd riˈæl ɪ ti, ɔgˈmɛn tɪd /

noun

1. Digital Technology. AR

   1. an enhanced image or environment as viewed on a screen or other display, produced by overlaying computer-generated images, sounds, or other data on a real-world environment.

   2. a system or technology used to produce such an enhanced environment.

      With augmented reality, tourists can see signs and other written words translated into English just by using their smartphone camera and this app.

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augmented reality British  

noun

1. an artificial environment created through the combination of real-world and computer-generated data

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Etymology

Origin of augmented reality

First recorded in 1980–85; patterned after virtual reality

Example Sentences

Augmented reality involves overlaying digital objects onto a person’s view of the physical world, allowing people to wear virtual dog ears on their faces and catch virtual Pokémon.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2025

Augmented reality, artificial intelligence and automated and unmanned weaponry called for recruits with increasingly technical skill sets.

From Washington Post • Jun. 10, 2022

Augmented reality exists, with mobile games like Pokemon Go, but players cannot affect the digital world with a physical object.

From Reuters • Feb. 18, 2022

Augmented reality, virtual survivor “docents” and video snippets will explain a time that becomes more remote for young people every year.

From New York Times • Oct. 8, 2021

Augmented reality will take some time to get right, but I do think that it’s profound.

From The Verge • Sep. 12, 2021