actuality

noun

ac·​tu·​al·​i·​ty ˌak-chə-ˈwa-lə-tē How to pronounce actuality (audio)
ˌak-shə-
plural actualities
1
: the quality or state of being actual
2
: something that is actual : fact, reality
possible risks which have been seized upon as actualitiesT. S. Eliot
Phrases
in actuality
: in actual fact

Examples of actuality in a Sentence

The actuality was quite different from the theory. the actuality of the Abominable Snowman is not taken seriously by scientists
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.
Marquee dimmings have, traditionally, been announced by the Broadway League – the trade organization of theater owners and producers – but in actuality the dimming decisions had always been determined by a committee of Broadway theater owners. Greg Evans, Deadline, 5 June 2025 But in actuality, quality lyricism is the essence of rap — sometimes that means battle bars. Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 23 May 2025 In actuality, Taylor could elect a minor league assignment in lieu of being released, but that seems highly unlikely. Dan Freedman, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025 The art of hospitality, the invitation to neighbor, is in actuality an investment in radical care, spiritual healing, and Black liberation. Essence, 20 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for actuality

Word History

Etymology

Middle English actualite "capacity for action, effective power," borrowed from Medieval Latin āctuālitāt-, āctuālitās, from Late Latin āctuālis actual + Latin -itāt-, -itās -ity

First Known Use

1587, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of actuality was in 1587

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Actuality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/actuality. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on actuality

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!