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

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

Experts at the lab are working on the further use of virtual reality, augmented reality and quantum technology against cybercriminals.

From Barron's • Feb. 15, 2026

There are some researchers and developers working with augmented reality, so if you’re wearing their glasses with an AR display, they will navigate you to your desired location.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 14, 2026

In the meantime Wicks, who hopes to stage a show later this year that intermixes dance with tarot themes, has created an experience that uses modern augmented reality technology and yet feels ephemeral.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 21, 2026

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

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu