real
UK: ˈrɪəl | US: ˈriːəl
adj. actually existing or occurring; not imagined or pretended
adj. genuine; not artificial or imitation
adj. (Mathematics) relating to numbers that can be represented on a number line
The word "real" originates from the Latin "realis," meaning "actual" or "relating to things (res)." It entered Middle English via Old French "reel," retaining its core sense of authenticity and tangibility. Over time, it expanded to describe genuine qualities (e.g., "real gold") and mathematical concepts ("real numbers"). The term's stability across languages highlights its foundational link to objective existence.
The documentary showed real events from the war.
She prefers real leather over synthetic materials.
In algebra, real numbers include both rational and irrational values.
His kindness felt real, not just polite.
The artist used real flowers in her installation.