science fiction

American  

[sahy-uhns fik-shuhn] / ˈsaɪ əns ˈfɪk ʃən /

Also scifi,

noun

1. a form of fiction that draws imaginatively on scientific knowledge and speculation in its plot, setting, theme, etc.

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science fiction British  

noun

1. 1. a literary genre that makes imaginative use of scientific knowledge or conjecture

   2. ( as modifier )

      a science fiction writer

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science fiction Cultural  

1. Works of fiction that use scientific discoveries or advanced technology — either actual or imaginary — as part of their plot. Jules Verne and H. G. Wells were early writers of science fiction. More recent ones are Isaac Asimov and Ray Bradbury.

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Etymology

Origin of science fiction

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Science fiction author Arthur C. Clarke once wrote, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic,” and agents seem like magic when they work.

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

Science fiction set in the 2050s is full of examples of humans using technological enhancements to feel fitter, happier and more productive.

From BBC • Jan. 2, 2026

Science fiction bursts at the seams with bizarre extinction scenarios, usually delivered from space, like the one that precipitates Carol’s irritating life turn.

From Salon • Nov. 26, 2025

Science fiction has been making promises and issuing warnings about humanoid machines since before the Czech writer Karel Čapek introduced the word “robot” in a 1920 play.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 14, 2025

Science fiction was a new idea at the time of the Thirty Years’ War, and Kepler’s book was used as evidence that his mother was a witch.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan

Related Words

• SF
• sci-fi