science fiction

[ sahy-uhns fik-shuhn ]
See synonyms for science fiction on Thesaurus.com
noun
  1. a form of fiction that draws imaginatively on scientific knowledge and speculation in its plot, setting, theme, etc.

Origin of science fiction

1
First recorded in 1925–30
  • Also sci-fi, sci·fi, sci fi [sahy-fahy] /ˈsaɪˌfaɪ/ .

Words Nearby science fiction

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

How to use science fiction in a sentence

British Dictionary definitions for science fiction

science fiction

noun
    • a literary genre that makes imaginative use of scientific knowledge or conjecture

    • (as modifier): a science fiction writer

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Cultural definitions for science fiction

science fiction

Works of fiction that use scientific discoveries or advanced technology — either actual or imaginary — as part of their plot. Jules Verne and H. G. Wells were early writers of science fiction. More recent ones are Isaac Asimov and Ray Bradbury.

The New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.