Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

steampunk

Noun

/ˈstiːpʌŋk/

Definition

A genre of speculative fiction that incorporates technology and aesthetic designs inspired by 19th-century steam-powered machinery.

Examples

The novel was a fantastic example of steampunk, filled with airships and clockwork devices.
Many steampunk enthusiasts dress in elaborate Victorian-inspired costumes that incorporate goggles and mechanical accessories.
At the festival, you’ll find steampunk art and handcrafted gadgets that showcase the unique aesthetic of the genre.

Meaning

Steampunk combines elements of science fiction and historical fiction to create an imaginative world that reflects a time when steam power was the primary energy source, often featuring anachronistic technologies and futuristic inventions based on Victorian-era design.