science fiction

American  

[sahy-uhns fik-shuhn] / ˈsaɪ əns ˈfɪk ʃən /

Also scifi,

noun

1. a form of fiction that draws imaginatively on scientific knowledge and speculation in its plot, setting, theme, etc.

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science fiction British  

noun

1. 1. a literary genre that makes imaginative use of scientific knowledge or conjecture

   2. ( as modifier )

      a science fiction writer

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science fiction Cultural  

1. Works of fiction that use scientific discoveries or advanced technology — either actual or imaginary — as part of their plot. Jules Verne and H. G. Wells were early writers of science fiction. More recent ones are Isaac Asimov and Ray Bradbury.

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Etymology

Origin of science fiction

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

It’s more like the language of Robert A. Heinlein, who wrote science fiction.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026

It may sound like something out of science fiction, but the discovery has very real implications for America’s ranchers and meat processors.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

The company’s S-1 is nearly 300 pages, chock-full of futuristic product ideas and lingo more reminiscent of science fiction than your typical Securities and Exchange Commission filing.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 24, 2026

The site attracts a mix of visitors, from families seeking a sense of adventure to enthusiasts drawn by its detailed references to science fiction, including a Tardis-style bathroom and optional costumes inspired by popular franchises.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

So in order to have any human interest in their stories, science fiction writers had to suppose that we would one day discover how to travel faster than light.

From "A Brief History of Time: And Other Essays" by Stephen Hawking

Related Words

• SF
• sci-fi