adjective
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denoting or relating to design, technology, etc, that is thought likely to be current or fashionable at some future time; ultramodern
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of or relating to futurism
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of futuristic
Explanation
Use the adjective futuristic to describe something so new and unfamiliar that it looks like it could come from the future. You might admire your cousin's futuristic, streamlined bicycle helmet. Something that's futuristic is designed in very modern way, like a low, sleek, futuristic car or a strange, futuristic suit of clothing. The word can also describe a work of fiction that's set in the future, like a futuristic thriller which takes place in another galaxy. When it's capitalized, Futuristic means of or about the Futurism art movement, an early twentieth century Italian group that focused on speed, technology, and contemporary industry.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Futuristic robotics and housing were dropped, and the first phase of the proposed project would be paid for using funds committed by the Japanese government as part of the trade deal reached in July.
From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 5, 2025
Futuristic, imaginative coffee shops sprang up everywhere to serve a burgeoning car culture, offering a quiet oasis from the chaos of new freeways and roads.
From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 23, 2023
Futuristic test vehicles from Cruise and Waymo are a common sight in some parts of San Francisco.
From Reuters • Aug. 7, 2023
Futuristic military dreams of an Iron Man exoskeleton suit might be giving way for something simpler: a lightweight wearable to help with back pain.
From Washington Post • Sep. 10, 2022
My gifted nephew Eric Till just before the War Was steeped in esoteric And antinomian lore, Now verging on the mystic, Now darkly symbolistic, Now frankly Futuristic, And modern to the core.
From Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 150, June 7, 1916 by Seaman, Owen, Sir
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
