science fiction

noun

: fiction dealing principally with the impact of actual or imagined science on society or individuals or having a scientific factor as an essential orienting component
science-fictional adjective

Examples of science fiction in a Sentence

Time travel exists only in the realm of science fiction.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This comedic science fiction has since become a cultural icon with a passionate fanbase. Arizona Republic, AZCentral.com, 12 Oct. 2025 What once felt like science fiction – powders that breathe, trap and transform molecules – is now science fact. Stavroula Alina Kampouri, The Conversation, 9 Oct. 2025 Cory Doctorow is a science fiction author, activist and journalist. Literary Hub, 8 Oct. 2025 The outward look may still be practical, but the technology inside is slowly catching up with science fiction’s imagination. Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 8 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for science fiction

Word History

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of science fiction was in 1898

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Cite this Entry

“Science fiction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/science%20fiction. Accessed 17 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

science fiction

noun
: fiction that deals with the influence of real or imagined science on society or individuals
science-fictional
ˈsī-ən(t)s-ˈfik-shnəl
-shən-ᵊl
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on science fiction

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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