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

Cryopreservation, the process of preserving biological tissue by cooling it to extremely low temperatures, often sounds like something out of science fiction.

From Science Daily • Apr. 27, 2026

The idea of orbital solar-power systems has been around for decades, discussed in the pages of an Isaac Asimov science fiction story published in 1941 and explored at universities and government research laboratories.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 27, 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

Witnessing a solar eclipse from space was a spectacle worthy of science fiction, as pilot Glover put it.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

Anger sends out a strange energy, like a force field in a science fiction movie.

From "Nine, Ten: A September 11 Story" by Nora Raleigh Baskin

Related Words

• SF
• sci-fi