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 How to pronounce science fiction (audio)
adjective

Examples of science fiction in a Sentence

Time travel exists only in the realm of science fiction.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
To this point, Gungnir has focused on superheroes, science fiction, and fantasy storytelling, and the deal with ProgCore will expand this into dark fantasy and sword and sorcery IP. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 1 Sep. 2026 For decades, the idea of a robot working inside an operating room belonged more to science fiction than medicine. — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 30 Aug. 2026 Which makes sense given that, nightmarish dystopian scenario or not, Scott’s movie isn’t science fiction. — David Fear, Rolling Stone, 28 Aug. 2026 Scott’s The Dog Stars is post-apocalyptic science fiction film about survivors of a deadly pandemic and is based on the 2012 novel. — James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for science fiction

Word History

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of science fiction was in 1898

Rhymes for science fiction

See All Rhymes for science fiction

Browse Nearby Words

science fair
science fiction
science of language
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Cite this Entry

“Science fiction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/science%20fiction. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on science fiction

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about science fiction

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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