virtual reality

American  

[vur-choo-uhl ree-al-i-tee] / ˈvɜr tʃu əl riˈæl ɪ ti /

noun

Digital Technology.

1. a realistic and immersive computer simulation of a three-dimensional environment, created using interactive software and hardware, and experienced or controlled by movement of the body. VR

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virtual reality British  

noun

1.  VR.  a computer-generated environment that, to the person experiencing it, closely resembles reality See also virtual

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virtual reality Scientific  

1. A computer simulation of a real or imaginary world or scenario, in which a user may interact with simulated objects or living things in real time. More sophisticated virtual reality systems place sensors on the user's body to sense movements that are then interpreted by the system as movements in the simulated world; binocular goggles are sometimes used to simulate the appearance of objects in three dimensions.

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virtual reality Cultural  

1. The creation of images and tactile sensations by means of a computer, producing the illusion of reality. Images are often projected onto special goggles to strengthen the illusion. (See cyberspace.)

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Etymology

Origin of virtual reality

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

The Matrix films were based on the idea that machine-addicted humans would put their bodies in suspended animation while computers provided a virtual reality that replaced real life.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

It was just a couple of years ago that major corporations were looking to virtual reality as the future of business, whether for internal meetings or external customer experiences.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

Horizon Worlds, the virtual reality app that tied into Meta’s Quest VR headsets, will disappear in June, but remain an option for mobile phone users.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

These digital ants can also be animated or placed into virtual reality environments for scientific research, education, or entertainment.

From Science Daily • Mar. 10, 2026

She doesn’t understand why these Deckers aren’t home with loved ones, particularly those two teen boys today, who, as they were leaving, talked about how underwhelming the virtual reality experience was.

From "They Both Die at the End" by Adam Silvera