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

To get it in your inbox, sign up for free here. CNN — Some of the most intriguing science fiction springs from eerie, real-life phenomena. —Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 29 June 2025

Unlike his contemporary, the science fiction author Jules Verne, who imagined a technologically facilitated journey to the Moon, Flammarion preferred a type of spiritual journey. —Matthew Shindell, Space.com, 29 June 2025

Adrian Tchaikovsky is the award-winning author of many books of science fiction and fantasy, including The Children of Time, Final Architecture and Tyrant Philosophers series. —Erik Pedersen, Oc Register, 27 June 2025

What followed was a weeklong experiment that’s equal parts science fiction, flirtation, emotional vulnerability, and swipe-free seduction. —Cathy Hackl, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025

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