Cyberpunk Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cyberpunk
[ˈsaɪbərˌpʌŋk ]
Definitions
genre, literature
Cyberpunk is a subgenre of science fiction that features advanced technology and a breakdown of social order, often set in a dystopian future. It emphasizes the themes of high-tech and low-life, exploring the impact of advanced technologies on society and individuals.
Synonyms
dystopian, science fiction.
Examples of usage
- The film is a classic example of cyberpunk cinema.
- She loves reading cyberpunk novels for their futuristic themes.
- The art style is heavily influenced by the cyberpunk genre.
style, culture
Cyberpunk describes a style or aesthetic characterized by a blend of advanced technology and a chaotic, often decaying urban environment. It often includes neon lights, cybernetic enhancements, and themes of rebellion against corporations.
Synonyms
futuristic, neon-lit.
Examples of usage
- The cityscape in the game has a distinctly cyberpunk feel.
- Her outfit was very cyberpunk, with metallic accessories and vibrant colors.
- The music in the film perfectly captures the cyberpunk vibe.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- William Gibson's novel 'Neuromancer' (1984) is often credited with popularizing the genre, presenting a gritty future dominated by corporations and technology.
- Themes of identity, reality, and corporate control in cyberpunk literature often reflect societal anxieties about technology's rapid advancement.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Blade Runner' (1982) and 'The Matrix' (1999) exemplify cyberpunk aesthetics and themes, showcasing dystopian futures with advanced technology.
- The video game 'Cyberpunk 2077' released in 2020, brought the genre back into the spotlight, allowing players to explore a richly detailed futuristic city.
Visual Art
- Visually, cyberpunk often features neon colors, dark urban environments, and a combination of high technology with lower socio-economic conditions.
- Artists like Syd Mead contributed iconic designs for cyberpunk films, influencing how future cities are imagined in media.
Technology and Society
- Cyberpunk reflects concerns over the impact of technology on society, often depicting a future where the line between human and machine blurs.
- The genre raises questions about privacy, surveillance, and the role of corporations, mirroring current technological debates.
Origin of 'cyberpunk'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'cyberpunk' was coined in the 1980s, merging 'cybernetics' (the study of communication and control in living beings and machines) with 'punk' (a rebellious subculture).
- The first known use of 'cyberpunk' appears in Bruce Bethke's 1983 short story titled 'Cyberpunk'.
The term 'cyberpunk' originated in the early 1980s, coined by writer Bruce Bethke in his short story titled 'Cyberpunk.' It is a portmanteau of 'cybernetics'—the interdisciplinary study of communication and control in living beings and machines—and 'punk,' which refers to the counterculture movements in the 1970s and 1980s that challenged mainstream norms. The genre emerged as a reaction to the rise of computer technology and the increasing influence of corporations on society, often portraying futures where technology and humanity coexist amid social decay. Early works like William Gibson's novel 'Neuromancer' played a crucial role in defining the genre, establishing its themes of hacking, artificial intelligence, and corporate control. Over the years, cyberpunk has influenced films, anime, and video games, creating a lasting impact on popular culture and inspiring new generations of creators.