from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Reality \Re*al"i*ty\ (r[-e]*[a^]l"[i^]*t[y^]), n.; pl.
{Realities} (-t[i^]z). [Cf. F. r['e]alit['e], LL. realitas.
See 3d {Real}, and cf. 2d {Realty}.]
1. The state or quality of being real; actual being or
existence of anything, in distinction from mere
appearance; fact.
[1913 Webster]
A man fancies that he understands a critic, when in
reality he does not comprehend his meaning.
--Addison.
[1913 Webster]
2. That which is real; an actual existence; that which is not
imagination, fiction, or pretense; that which has
objective existence, and is not merely an idea.
[1913 Webster]
And to realities yield all her shows. --Milton.
[1913 Webster]
My neck may be an idea to you, but it is a reality
to me. --Beattie.
[1913 Webster]
3. [See 1st {Realty}, 2.] Loyalty; devotion. [Obs.]
[1913 Webster]
To express our reality to the emperor. --Fuller.
[1913 Webster]
4. (Law) See 2d {Realty}, 2.
[1913 Webster]