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

Outlander is filled with romance, science fiction and adventure, like the popular novel series from which it's based. —Hannah Kerns, PEOPLE, 6 Sep. 2025

Few studios, no matter the genre, have achieved such heights of science fiction storytelling in video games. —Fran Ruiz, Space.com, 3 Sep. 2025

Glow-in-the-dark plants bright enough to light up streets at night may sound like the stuff of science fiction or fantasy. —Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 3 Sep. 2025

This may sound like science fiction, but the convergence of large language models (LLMs), brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and cognitive neuroscience suggests a very real future where developers could literally think their apps into existence. —Somdip Dey, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 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