steampunk

American  

[steem-puhngk] / ˈstimˌpʌŋk /

Or steam punk,

noun

1. a subgenre of science fiction and fantasy featuring advanced machines and other technology based on steam power of the 19th century and taking place in a recognizable historical period or a fantasy world.

2. a subculture inspired by this literary and film subgenre.

   the fashions and gadgets of steampunk.

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Usage

What does steampunk mean? Steampunk is a subgenre of science fiction and fantasy that features advanced machinery based on the steam-powered technology of the 1800s. It is typically set in a recognizable historical period or fantasy world. Steampunk is also an aesthetic movement that is inspired by this literary subgenre and by 19th-century technology in general, especially the steam engine.

Etymology

Origin of steampunk

First recorded in 1985–90; modeled on cyberpunk

Example Sentences

Journe FFC Prototype that features a black titanium, human-like hand that resembles a steampunk gauntlet that articulates the hours when the fingers extend or retract.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 24, 2025

I’m pleased to report that the car’s most beguiling bit of cabin jewelry—the faceted gear selector, like a steampunk gaming cube embedded in the center console—made it through to the latest redesign.

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 25, 2025

Cirque Mechanics, a troupe with a giddy steampunk aesthetic, has produced five previous shows at the New Victory.

From New York Times • Nov. 27, 2024

Some have feted it as a triumphant take on feminism amid what seems to be Victorian-era Europe, stuffed with steampunk fantasy, velvety colors and quirky charm.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2024

Hazel and Frank had been knocked out by the tendrils of a possessed steampunk bowling ball.

From "The Mark of Athena" by Rick Riordan