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

ˈsī-ən(t)s-ˈfik-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

Examples of science fiction in a Sentence

Time travel exists only in the realm of science fiction.

Recent Examples on the Web

The trio are avid romance and spicy readers but also have a love for fantasy and science fiction. —Charlotte Observer, 16 Mar. 2026

The author of several novels and television series, Grant is best remembered as the co-creator of the science fiction comedy series Red Dwarf, which followed the adventures of Dave Lister aboard the titular mining spacecraft. —Robert Lea, Space.com, 14 Mar. 2026

The robot revolution won’t be driven by science fiction, according to Bank of America. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 13 Mar. 2026

Her debut novel fuses music, science fiction, and consciousness into a luminous tapestry that challenges humanity to dream bigger and love deeper. —Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 12 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for science fiction

• antifriction
• benediction
• contradiction
• crucifixion
• dereliction
• interdiction
• jurisdiction
• malediction
• addiction
• affliction
• constriction
• conviction

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