pseudoscience

noun

pseu·​do·​sci·​ence ˌsü-dō-ˈsī-ən(t)s How to pronounce pseudoscience (audio)
: a system of theories, assumptions, and methods erroneously regarded as scientific
pseudoscientific adjective
pseudoscientist noun

Examples of pseudoscience in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web In 2023, the BBC investigated a wave of videos targeting older children that used AI tools to push pseudoscience and conspiracy theories, including climate change denialism. Kate Knibbs, WIRED, 19 Mar. 2024 His pitch so bristles with disinformation and pseudoscience that it’s been disavowed by virtually his entire family, whose name has been synonymous with progressive politics and policy for generations. Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 5 Mar. 2024 There is a little too much darkness in this world and not enough light, a little too much pseudoscience and not enough science. Eric Berger, Ars Technica, 6 Feb. 2024 His racist pseudoscience had a profound impact on scientific research. Melissa Noel, Essence, 5 Feb. 2024 Nevertheless, although attitudes may be slowly changing, cryptozoology—to give the field its proper name—is still considered a pseudoscience. Chris Wheatley, Longreads, 18 Jan. 2024 Whether for finances, career prospects, or even romance, many younger Americans are turning to the mystic and the spiritual—what skeptics would deem pseudoscience. Chloe Berger, Fortune, 27 Jan. 2024 While today regarded as a pseudoscience, adherents to the practice then (and now) believed that the stars and planets influenced human affairs, including personal health. Stephen C. George, Discover Magazine, 25 Dec. 2023 Bialik’s appointment as host was criticized by some fans who questioned her credibility due to controversial past comments regarding pseudoscience and Harvey Weinstein’s victims. Vulture, 15 Dec. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'pseudoscience.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1796, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pseudoscience was in 1796

Dictionary Entries Near pseudoscience

Cite this Entry

“Pseudoscience.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pseudoscience. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

pseudoscience

noun
pseu·​do·​sci·​ence ˌsüd-ō-ˈsī-ən(t)s How to pronounce pseudoscience (audio)
: a system of theories, assumptions, and methods erroneously regarded as scientific
pseudoscientific adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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