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.
Ryonex has emerged as one of the most notable names in Japan’s new generation of futuristic trap and melodic drill.
From Slate ● Aug. 28, 2026
Although he established himself with futuristic films like “Alien” and “Blade Runner,” he showed a knack for emotional drama with 1991’s “Thelma & Louise” and for historical epics like 2000’s “Gladiator.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 26, 2026
The campus sits on the outskirts of Hangzhou, a former imperial capital whose futuristic skyline is just the first hint of its role as a global tech hub.
From BBC ● Aug. 24, 2026
Saudi Arabia’s futuristic megaproject Neom has come to a standstill, as the extraordinary costs of the planned city have collided with financial reality.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 19, 2026
The Sunday afternoon sun trickles through my streaked window and shines light onto my Miles Morales poster, which features the hero fearlessly swinging through a futuristic neon city.
From "Kwame Crashes the Underworld" by Craig Kofi Farmer
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.
