: existing or occurring in reality : drawn from or drawing on actual events or situations
real-life problems
real-life drama

Examples of real-life in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This real-life story of betrayal, manipulation, and premeditated murder inspired the new Spanish thriller A Widow’s Game (La Viuda Negra), premiering May 30 on Netflix. Isadora Wandermurem, Time, 30 May 2025 The film tells the story of real-life UFC legend Mark Kerr, with Johnson landing the lead role. Michael Nied, People.com, 30 May 2025 For Salaverry, who plays the wrestler The Reina, the filmmaker adjusted the character from the original script version to one closer to her real-life persona. Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 30 May 2025 Sirens Set-Up Inspired by Metzler’s original play that itself took inspiration from a real-life experience and place, Sirens stars Milly Alcock, Meghann Fahy, Julianne Moore, and Kevin Bacon. Mark Hughes, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for real-life

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of real-life was in 1838

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Cite this Entry

“Real-life.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/real-life. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

real-life

adjective
: happening in reality : being like real life

More from Merriam-Webster on real-life

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