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

See Examples For:

augmented reality

The mobile app Pokémon Go, which is now celebrating its 10th anniversary, uses GPS and augmented reality to let players find and catch virtual monsters in real-world locations.

From BBC ● Jul. 13, 2026

“Where I stay careful is in not letting the technology become the subject. The augmented reality by Snap’s AR Studio adds to the project, doesn’t take you away from it.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 20, 2026

Not too long ago, augmented reality was the hot topic in tech circles, and the metaverse was the next big thing.

From Barron's ● Jun. 18, 2026

Some of the company’s technicians have trained with augmented reality and others have learned about drone technology.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 26, 2026

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

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu