reality, n.
I. The quality or state of being real.
1. Real existence; what is real rather than imagined or desired; the aggregate of real things or existences; that which underlies and is the truth of appearances or phenomena.
2.
a. The quality of being real or having an actual existence.
b. Correspondence to fact; truth. Obs.
3. Something that is real; a real fact or state of things; (also) the real nature of something. Freq. in pl.
5.
a. That which constitutes the actual thing, as distinguished from what is merely apparent or external.
b. The real nature or constitution of something; the real thing or state of things.
c. With modifying adjectives, as harsh reality, grim reality, stark reality, etc.: the actual circumstances or facts regarded as oppressive or unpleasant, esp. in contrast to an idealized or imagined state of affairs.