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

Combining mysterious science fiction and action-adventure, Disclosure Day unfolds largely as a chase thriller. —Jack Smart, PEOPLE, 12 June 2026

This story of a lone human trekking with an ambisexual alien to escape from a frozen world is a classic of feminist science fiction and is more relevant than ever. —Brianne Kane, Scientific American, 12 June 2026

Backward-looking spreadsheets make SpaceX look like a money-losing legacy defense contractor wearing a science fiction multiple. —Jon Markman, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026

While this might rankle a certain type of science fiction reader who expects rigorous world building and a straightforward plot, Unferth’s playfulness injects new life into some trusty old tropes that have calcified into clichés. —Literary Hub, 11 June 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