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, at once; instantaneously.

Example Sentences

However the CMA said it had "not found evidence" that such an algorithmic pricing system had been used to adjust the price of Oasis tickets in real time.

From BBC

Defenders of using drones to monitor protests say the aircraft, with their high-tech capabilities, can provide authorities useful and detailed information in real time.

From Los Angeles Times

My challenge was to listen and respond in real time, musically reacting to his words and body language.

From Los Angeles Times

But LiveNOW puts its viewing numbers right on the screen in real time.

From Los Angeles Times

And you can see the math play out in real time.

From Salon