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

For some science fiction fans, this Thanksgiving not only marked a celebration of fall food and turkey. —Kate Perez, USA Today, 28 Nov. 2025

In this science fiction drama, Green plays Rebecca, a woman whose childhood love, Tommy, dies in a car accident after they are reunited as adults. —Maria Azzurra Volpe, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Nov. 2025

The multiverse trope—which presents the idea of branching, alternate versions of reality—was once relegated to theoretical physics, esoteric science fiction, and fringe pop culture. —Ian Bogost, The Atlantic, 26 Nov. 2025

Dustin Henderson Aquarius is the sign associated with science fiction, which is Dustin's specialty. —Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 26 Nov. 2025

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