roman expérimental
/rə(ʊ)ˌmɒ̃ ɛkspɛrɪmɒ̃ˈtɑːl/ /rə(ʊ)ˌman ɛkspɛrɪmɒ̃ˈtɑːl/noun
A realistic novel which explores or draws upon deterministic theories of human nature (especially with reference to the writings of Émile Zola). Also (occasionally) figurative.
Origin
Late 19th century; earliest use found in William James (1842–1910), philosopher and psychologist. From French roman expérimental from roman + expérimental.