The compound adjective 'true-life' is a relatively modern formation, emerging in the 19th century from the straightforward combination of two foundational English words. 'True' originates from the Old English concept of faithfulness and constancy, which semantically extended to denote factual accuracy and reality. 'Life' stems from the Old English term for biological existence and lived experience. When combined, the literal meaning 'real existence' logically evolved into the modern abstract sense used to describe narratives, depictions, or accounts that are based on factual events and authentic experiences, contrasting with fictionalized or invented stories.

Structure: true (real) + life (existence) - true: From Old English trēowe, trīewe (faithful, trustworthy). In this compound, it functions as an adjective meaning 'real, genuine'. - life: From Old English līf (existence, lifetime). In this compound, it functions as a noun denoting the state of living or real experience.