Sci-fi

Sci-fi is an abbreviation for science fiction. It was invented in the 1950s by Forrest J. Ackerman as a pun on the term "hi-fi." Many science fiction fans initially reacted negatively to the word.

Another abbreviation for science fiction is "SF." However, "sci-fi" is more common in popular usage. Despite almost universal acceptance of the word, many older science fiction fans still cringe when they hear it.

Sometimes the word is used to mean particularly poor or campy examples of science fiction. For example, under such usage, Plan 9 from Outer Space might be considered sci-fi. In this usage it is often spelled "skiffy" which is pronounced to rhyme with "jiffy".

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The name "Sci Fi" also is used by:

• a British satellite television channel; see Sci Fi Channel (United Kingdom)
• a United States television channel; see Sci Fi Channel (United States)