space opera

noun

: a futuristic melodramatic fantasy involving space travelers and extraterrestrial beings

Examples of space opera in a Sentence

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.
Watch on Disney+ The Star Wars Prequel Trilogy More than 20 years after Star Wars: Episode IV—A New Hope (aka simply Star Wars) helped to define the Hollywood blockbuster, George Lucas returned to the space opera well with an all-new trilogy for an all-new generation of moviegoers. Jennifer M. Wood, WIRED, 21 Nov. 2024 Both games hinge on recruiting outcasts for a dangerous mission, and the way companion relationships weave together is similar to the studio’s previous space opera. Hayes Madsen, Rolling Stone, 28 Oct. 2024 That sets it apart from the myriad space operas populating big-budget TV in recent years; the relationships are the real substance of the show, the interstellar adventures are the dessert. Will Harris, EW.com, 10 Sep. 2024 Ubisoft’s foray into the space opera is a rarity because of its open-world nature and its focus. Gieson Cacho, The Mercury News, 5 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for space opera 

Word History

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of space opera was in 1941

Dictionary Entries Near space opera

Cite this Entry

“Space opera.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/space%20opera. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

space opera

noun
: science fiction that deals with fantastic situations involving space travelers and beings from other worlds
Etymology

from space and opera, following the pattern of soap opera

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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