subplot

noun

sub·​plot ˈsəb-ˌplät How to pronounce subplot (audio)
1
: a subordinate plot in fiction or drama
2
: a subdivision of an experimental plot of land

Examples of subplot 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.
While this discrimination subplot is baked into the material, the example of a minority being demonized, silenced and effectively neutralized from society acquires what no doubt was unanticipated relevance in light of the recent election cycle and the hot-button issue of immigration. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 19 Nov. 2024 Indeed, there are a few intriguing subplots during the back half of this season for the teams, which prior to this year had not been ranked in the same week since 1960. Tom Layberger, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024 Watching LeBron and Bronny make history is not even a subplot in tonight’s game. Elizabeth Robinson, NBC News, 22 Oct. 2024 There’s also a romantic subplot between Selena Gomez, who plays the cartel leader’s wife, and Édgar Ramírez, as a guy who wears tank tops. Nate Jones, Vulture, 9 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for subplot 

Word History

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of subplot was in 1812

Dictionary Entries Near subplot

Cite this Entry

“Subplot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subplot. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

subplot

noun
sub·​plot ˈsəb-ˌplät How to pronounce subplot (audio)
: a subordinate plot in fiction or drama

More from Merriam-Webster on subplot

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!