pseudoscience

noun

pseu·​do·​sci·​ence ˌsü-dō-ˈsī-ən(t)s 

: a system of theories, assumptions, and methods erroneously regarded as scientific

pseudoscientific

ˌsü-dō-ˌsī-ən-ˈti-fik 

adjective

pseudoscientist

ˌsü-dō-ˈsī-ən-tist 

noun

Examples of pseudoscience in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Extreme diets often function less like trends and more like belief systems, according to Jonathan Stea, clinical psychologist, adjunct assistant professor at the University of Calgary, who wrote a book about pseudoscience and misinformation in the wellness industry. —Miguel Torres, USA Today, 8 Dec. 2025

Supernatural beliefs, conspiracy theories and pseudoscience have struck researchers as totally impervious to contrary evidence. —Eli Elster, The Conversation, 2 Dec. 2025

There is a clear, straightforward path to making such an impact, and having your mediocre, contrarian research (whether legitimate research or pseudoscience) going completely viral. —Big Think, 12 Nov. 2025

Powell understands why otherwise rational runners spend money on what might be considered pseudoscience. —Ali Nolan, Outside, 10 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1796, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for pseudoscience

• geoscience
• neuroscience
• noncompliance
• appliance
• compliance
• defiance
• reliance
• science

Medical Definition

pseudoscience

noun

pseu·​do·​sci·​ence ˌsüd-ō-ˈsī-ən(t)s 

: a system of theories, assumptions, and methods erroneously regarded as scientific

pseudoscientific

-ˌsī-ən-ˈtif-ik 

adjective