real-life

American

[ree-uhl-lahyf, reel-] / ˈri əlˌlaɪf, ˈril- /

adjective

existing or happening in reality.

real-life drama.

real life British

noun

1. actual human life, as lived by real people, esp contrasted with the lives of fictional or fantasy characters
  
  miracles don't happen in real life
2. ( as modifier )
  
  a real-life mystery

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of real-life

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It started with creating a show where comics could tell completely uncensored, unhinged real-life stories.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

The setup mirrored real-life decisions, but stripped away the usual complications.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 16, 2026

He sees community sponsorship going the way of the $32 billion-plus influencer marketing industry, with brands routinely linking up with multiple real-life groups to boost wider marketing campaigns.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

These real-life tradwives described hellish experiences, both for themselves and their children.

From Salon • Apr. 13, 2026

“No, seriously. You should have a statue. Or better yet, a holiday. You’re a real-life superhero.”

From "The Manifestor Prophecy" by Angie Thomas

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023