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.
Riyadh Air formally started commercial operations in June and is a key pillar of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s plans to turn the kingdom into a major, futuristic tourism destination.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 14, 2026
Film fans have had plenty of chances to spot Glasgow on the big screen in recent years, from superhero blockbusters to futuristic sci-fi thrillers.
From BBC ● Sep. 13, 2026
Each piece of clothing within the collection nods to a futuristic past garnished by pops of primary colors while signaling toward a future of “systemized intuition” where utility is the ultimate framework.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 11, 2026
The posts ranged from imagined meetings with George Washington to reshaping Iran in his own image, but some of the most striking portrayed the president commanding futuristic military forces.
From Salon ● Sep. 7, 2026
I wrapped him up like a futuristic, ninja mummy.
From "The Line Tender" by Kate Allen
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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.