real world

[ree-uhl, reel]

noun

1. the realm of practical or actual experience, as opposed to the abstract, theoretical, or idealized sphere of the classroom, laboratory, etc..

   recent college graduates looking for jobs in the real world of rising unemployment.

Other Word Forms

• real-world adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of real world¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Related Words

• here and now