nonfiction

noun

non·​fic·​tion ˌnän-ˈfik-shən How to pronounce nonfiction (audio)
: writing or cinema that is about facts and real events
He prefers to read nonfiction rather than novels.
nonfictional
ˌnän-ˈfik-shnəl How to pronounce nonfiction (audio)
-shə-nᵊl
adjective

Examples of nonfiction in a Sentence

He reads a lot of nonfiction.
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.
The 27th Thessaloniki International Documentary Festival is underway in the Greek port city, a gathering point for some of the biggest names in nonfiction filmmaking – and young talents eager to join those ranks. Matthew Carey, Deadline, 9 Mar. 2025 The time, attention, and sheer scope of research that went into her nonfiction book is staggering. The Glamour Editors, Glamour, 8 Mar. 2025 The later release of paperbacks allowed authors to experience a second wind of sales, an opportunity of which most nonfiction authors are now deprived. Brady Knox, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 4 Mar. 2025 Amy-lynn Fischer is a mother of twin boys, a nonfiction writer working on a book about the medical industry and body trauma and works in niche magazine publishing as a sales director. Amy-Lynn Fischer, The Mercury News, 3 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for nonfiction

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nonfiction was in 1867

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Nonfiction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nonfiction. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

nonfiction

noun
non·​fic·​tion ˈnän-ˈfik-shən How to pronounce nonfiction (audio)
: literature or cinema that is not fictional
nonfictional adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on nonfiction

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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