som1/ any1 real.REAL [ree-uhl, reel] adjective 1. true; not merely ostensible, nominal, or apparent: the real reason for an act. 2. existing or occurring as fact; actual rather than imaginary, ideal, or fictitious 3. being an actual thing; having objective existence; not imaginary 4. being actually such; not merely so-called 5. genuine; not counterfeit, artificial, or imitation; authentic 6. unfeigned or sincere: real sympathy; a real friend. 7. Informal. absolute; complete; utter