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

Now, however, thanks to radical advances in robotics and rocketry, the prospect of routinely servicing spacecraft is no longer the stuff of science fiction. — Tom Metcalfe, Scientific American, 18 Aug. 2026

Via Val, Calle was dropped in the middle of Apple’s high-concept series that blends the look and feel of a classic Los Angeles detective story, and layers on top a distinct science fiction twist. — Mia Galuppo, HollywoodReporter, 18 Aug. 2026

Many of the visions emerging out of Silicon Valley have been lifted wholesale from science fiction, but without the critical awareness that characterizes the genre — and without genuine openness to the unfamiliar. — Carline Tromp, The Dial, 18 Aug. 2026

These scenarios are not science fiction, and the United States is underprepared to handle any of them. — Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall, Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 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