1.presently existing in fact and not merely potential or possible;
the predicted temperature and the actual temperature were markedly different
2.taking place in reality; not pretended or imitated;
we saw the actual wedding on television
3.being or reflecting the essential or genuine character of something;
her actual motive
4.of the nature of fact; having actual existence;
rocks and trees...the actual world
5.existing in fact whether with lawful authority or not;
de facto segregation is as real as segration imposed by law
6.being or existing at the present moment;
the ship's actual position is 22 miles due south of Key West