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

These capabilities are important for building wide field-of-view waveguides used in augmented reality glasses and smart contact lenses.

From Science Daily • Apr. 21, 2026

The company is cutting more than 1,000 jobs from its Reality Labs division where employees work on its virtual reality and augmented reality efforts.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

Virtual and augmented reality will also be a key part of live entertainment, Bechtel says, allowing individual audience members to experience different versions of the same show.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

She will also test a system that uses artificial intelligence and augmented reality to allow astronauts to carry out their own medical ultrasounds.

From Barron's • Feb. 13, 2026

“You don’t have any augmented reality overlaid in your home,” I say as I sit.

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu