sci-fi

adjective

ˈsī-ˈfī How to pronounce sci-fi (audio)
: of, relating to, or being science fiction
a sci-fi film
sci-fi noun

Examples of sci-fi in a Sentence

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.
There were some, especially fantasy and sci-fi. — Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 26 June 2026 Apptronik’s Apollo uses a classic sci-fi design, with digital readouts on its mouth and chest. — Stephen Witt, New Yorker, 29 June 2026 Lofty sci-fi ambitions, huge coverage in the *ahem* media and a founder with a cult-like following whipped up a frenzy of excitement around the company. — Kai Nicol-Schwarz, CNBC, 26 June 2026 Steven Spielberg's latest sci-fi movie, Disclosure Day, has finally hit cinemas worldwide. — Grace Dean, Space.com, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for sci-fi

Word History

Etymology

shortened from science fiction

First Known Use

1953, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sci-fi was in 1953

Rhymes for sci-fi

See All Rhymes for sci-fi

Browse Nearby Words

SCIF
sci-fi
scilicet
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sci-fi.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sci-fi. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

sci-fi

noun
ˈsī-ˈfī
: science fiction
sci-fi adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on sci-fi

Nglish: Translation of sci-fi for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sci-fi

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