Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

dystopia

noun

/dɪsˈtoʊpiə/

Definition

A fictional society that is undesirable or frightening, often characterized by oppressive societal control and the illusion of a perfect society.

Examples

In the novel, the characters struggle to survive in a dystopia where technology dominates every aspect of life.
Many classic dystopias, like ‘1984’, depict a future that serves as a warning against authoritarian governments.
The film paints a chilling picture of a dystopia where nature is nearly extinct and humanity is at war with itself.

Meaning

Dystopia refers to a world where everything is unpleasant, typically stemming from totalitarian control, environmental disaster, or other factors that create a bleak existence.