Fiction

Definition

Fiction is a noun referring to literature or narrative works that are invented or imagined, rather than based on real events. It can also denote an imagined story or an idea that is not factual.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɪkʃən/
• Respelling: FIK-shuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɪkʃən/
• Respelling: FIK-shuhn

Etymology

The word "fiction" originates from the Latin "fictio," meaning "a fashioning, feigning, or fabrication," derived from "fingere," meaning "to shape or form." It entered Middle English via Old French in the 14th century, maintaining its sense of imaginative creation.

Derivatives

• Fictional (adjective)
• Fictionalize (verb)
• Fictionist (noun)
• Fictionality (noun)
• Nonfiction (noun)

Synonyms

• Story
• Fabrication
• Imagination

Antonyms

• Reality
• Fact
• Truth

Usage

The term "fiction" is used in contexts relating to literature, storytelling, and imagined scenarios. For example, "She enjoys reading science fiction novels," or "The story was dismissed as pure fiction."

Related Terms

• Novel: A long narrative work of fiction.
• Fantasy: A genre of fiction involving magical or other supernatural elements.
• Narrative: The structure and telling of a story, whether fictional or factual.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Literary works based on imagination rather than fact: Refers to novels, short stories, and other narrative forms that are not based on real events.
  • Example: "Her latest book is a work of historical fiction."
• An idea or statement that is imagined or not factual: Describes a fabricated or untrue notion.
  • Example: "The rumor turned out to be complete fiction."
• The act of inventing or imagining: Refers to the creative process of constructing stories or ideas.
  • Example: "Writing fiction requires a vivid imagination."