The meaning of FACT is something that actually exists or occurs : an actual event, situation, etc. —often used in the phrase the fact that.

FACT definition: 1. something that is known to have happened or to exist, especially something for which proof…. Learn more.

Generally speaking, facts are independent of belief, knowledge and opinion. Facts are different from inferences, theories, values, and objects. [2] For example, "This sentence contains …

in fact 1 : in truth — used to stress that a statement is true although it may be surprising or unlikely

fact (fækt) n. 1. something that actually exists: Your fears have no basis in fact. 2. something known to exist or to have happened. 3. a truth known by actual experience or observation; …

There are 19 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word fact, four of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

fact (fakt), n. something that actually exists; reality; truth: Your fears have no basis in fact. something known to exist or to have happened: Space travel is now a fact. a truth known by …