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.

---

augmented reality British  

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of augmented reality

First recorded in 1980–85; patterned after virtual reality

Example Sentences

The 14-year-old tech company is still losing money and has seen its share price tumble as it barrels forward to popularize augmented reality glasses next year.

From Los Angeles Times

Now Snap plans to release augmented reality glasses in 2026 that let people interact with digital images overlaid onto the physical world.

From Los Angeles Times

On Snapchat, advertisers have also used augmented reality effects to promote their brands in quirky ways to a young audience.

From Los Angeles Times

Other surprise-and-delight features: The electrochromic roof that can be shaded in zones and patterns; the high-def head-up display, with beautifully animated overlays of augmented reality.

From The Wall Street Journal

Meta’s Reality Labs division, which develops augmented reality and virtual reality technology hardware, software and platforms, lost $4.4 billion in the third quarter but generated $470 million in revenue.

From Los Angeles Times