real part

American  

[ree-uhl, reel] / ˈri əl, ril /

noun

Mathematics.

1. the number a in the complex number a + bi.

---

real part British  

noun

1. the term a in a complex number a + i b , where i = √–1

---

Etymology

Origin of real part

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

Yet, much like the entire $7.2 trillion federal budget, it is a bit of a phantasm—part real, part fantasy, part nightmare, not likely to materialize in life, except as a warped caricature of itself.

From Slate • Mar. 12, 2024

“This is a very real part of the museum,” she says, briefly poking her head out.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 26, 2024

I talk a lot about geographic equality problems because I think they're a real part of the problems of our system, and they don't get that much attention.

From Salon • Nov. 12, 2023

“For many people the conflict is still very real, part of their everyday lives,” said O’Neill, who studies trans-generational trauma.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2023

“But now it’s gonna be a real part of the turn. It’s gonna pull...”

From "A Confederacy of Dunces" by John Kennedy Toole