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
Derived 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.
While meaningful revenue is still further out for companies focused on futuristic technologies like this one, Lee noted an uptick in contracts that signals business momentum is growing.
From MarketWatch • Jun. 4, 2026
There’s a problem with these futuristic plans, however: A lot of people in Box Elder County don’t want this.
From Slate • Jun. 1, 2026
The rocket is designed to loft Starlink satellites, deploy the futuristic AI satellite fleet the company wants to create, and underpins Chief Executive Elon Musk’s exploration dreams.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026
Beyond the city's futuristic skyline are older neighbourhoods where workers sort packages or sell fruit and vegetables in the hope of making a few dollars a day.
From BBC • May 12, 2026
Maybe I fly futuristic jets that run on meteors or something!
From "The Last Last-Day-of-Summer" by Lamar Giles
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.
