steampunk

or steam punk, steam-punk

[ steem-puhngk ]

noun

1. a subgenre of science fiction and fantasy featuring advanced machines and other technology based on steam power of the 19th century and taking place in a recognizable historical period or a fantasy world.
2. a subculture inspired by this literary and film subgenre:

   the fashions and gadgets of steampunk.

Word History and Origins

Origin of steampunk¹

First recorded in 1985–90; modeled on cyberpunk

Example Sentences

The ochre spaghetti you get looks steampunk, but tastes just fine.

From The Daily Beast

Specifically dry ciders like the Steampunk Cider from Leaonard Oakes Estate in Lyndonville, NY.

From The Daily Beast

His newest series, Leviathan, is a steampunk reimagining of WWI Europe.

From The Daily Beast