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.
It was previously reported that Martin Gero was working on a new TV entry in the sci-fi franchise, but that project ultimately did not move forward. — Joe Otterson, Variety, 9 Oct. 2026 On Below, Heaton stars alongside Josh Hartnett and Mackenzie Davis in the sci-fi limited series. — Nicole Fell, HollywoodReporter, 9 Oct. 2026 The sci-fi concept of a supersonic airliner became reality only after France and Britain signed a 1962 treaty to develop Concorde, jointly tackling technical quandaries commercial aviation had never faced. — Robb Report, 9 Oct. 2026 Leading the pack is the new volume of World Trigger, Ashihara’s sci-fi action manga, which tops brick-and-mortar sales and e-books. — Billboard Japan, Billboard, 9 Oct. 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

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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 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

sci-fi

noun
ˈsī-ˈfī
: science fiction
sci-fi adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on sci-fi

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sci-fi

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