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

Now, those gadgets once limited to works of science fiction are inching close to reality. —Kif Leswing, CNBC, 12 Sep. 2025

Mosley is the acclaimed actor of several novels beyond the Easy Rawlins series, including science fiction, nonfiction and children’s books. —Carly Tagen-Dye, PEOPLE, 12 Sep. 2025

Things get weird, however, when the lines between science fiction and fantasy start to blur. —Richard Edwards, Space.com, 11 Sep. 2025

Sam’s science fiction action adventure spotlights life on the margins if also on the fringes of deep space, its two main characters a pair of well-meaning outcasts outrunning the law. —Manuel Muñoz, Literary Hub, 11 Sep. 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