IRL

adv. Stands for In Real Life. Used to describe doing something in person rather than through a computer or phone.

adv. Abbreviation for In Real Life. Functions as an adverbial to denote actions occurring in the physical world as opposed to virtual or online spaces.

“We have been friends online for years, but we finally met IRL last week.”

“Although they collaborated effectively via digital platforms for months, the team found that meeting IRL allowed for much more nuanced creative discussions.”

Informal · Slang

adj. describes something that exists in the physical world.

adj. Used attributively to describe people, objects, or events existing in the physical world rather than a digital simulation.

“I prefer hanging out with my IRL friends rather than just talking to people on social media.”

“The streamer often struggles to balance their online persona with their IRL identity and private responsibilities.”

Informal · Slang

n. a person you know from the physical world, not just from the internet.

n. A person with whom one has a physical-world relationship, typically used to contrast with 'online-only' acquaintances.

“A few of my IRLs came to my birthday party, but most of my gaming friends couldn't make it.”

“The distinction between 'mutuals' and 'IRLs' is a common theme in contemporary social media discourse regarding friendship circles.”

Informal · Slang