romantasy

noun

ro·​man·​ta·​sy rō-ˈman-tə-sē 

1

: a subgenre of fiction that incorporates elements of romance (see romance entry 1 sense 2a(3)) and fantasy (see fantasy entry 1 sense 2b)

While traditional fantasy may sometimes contain romantic elements, romantasy treats the romantic and erotic desires of its characters as equally important to their quest to resolve the magical and political tumult that surrounds them.

—Sarah Skwire

2

plural romantasies : a romantasy story, novel, etc.

… this romantasy about the bloody, magical bonds between a mage and his knight.

—Natalie Zutter

… romantasies ushered in an era of new fans of steamy fiction this year, with primarily women writers at the helm …

—Theara Coleman

Word History

Etymology

blend of romance entry 1 and fantasy entry 1

First Known Use

1998, in the meaning defined at sense 1