historical fiction
Americannoun
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the genre of literature, film, etc., comprising narratives that take place in the past and are characterized chiefly by an imaginative reconstruction of historical events and personages.
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works of this genre, as novels and plays.
Etymology
Origin of historical fiction
First recorded in 1585–95
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.
In contrast to the nobly principled leader of historical fiction, Mr. Levin offers up the real, flawed Shaw, a young man more vainglorious than glorious.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 12, 2026
Both were popular novelists of rip-roaring historical fiction, both were politically active Tories, and both had the Borderlands at the heart of their works and lives.
From BBC ● Feb. 3, 2026
“Titanic” was not merely a romance; it was also historical fiction, a drama and a big-budget action.
From Salon ● Jan. 23, 2026
Calling “Amadeus” one of the great pieces of historical fiction for theater, Feldman said it’s a show he’s been planning for the Playhouse for quite some time.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 12, 2025
This novel is a work of historical fiction.
From "Mississippi Trial, 1955" by Chris Crowe
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