subset

noun

sub·​set ˈsəb-ˌset How to pronounce subset (audio)
1
: a set each of whose elements is an element of an inclusive set
2
: division, portion
a subset of our community

Examples of subset in a Sentence

The set {1,2,3} is a subset of the set {1,2,3,4,5}. Only a small subset of the patients in the study experienced these side effects.
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.
Security Check seems to summarize a subset of the issues from the main security score chart. PCMAG, 7 Nov. 2024 Walking pneumonia describes a milder subset of the condition caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024 In contrast, the smaller subset of highly engaged VIP collectors from Basel tends to prioritize in-person interactions. Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 25 Oct. 2024 Because of its title, more than the premise or the actual content, Young Sheldon was an easy series to make fun of, particularly among the subset of punchline writers who watched none of its 141 episodes. Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for subset 

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of subset was in 1881

Dictionary Entries Near subset

Cite this Entry

“Subset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subset. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

subset

noun
sub·​set ˈsəb-ˌset How to pronounce subset (audio)
: a mathematical set that is a part of another mathematical set
the set of even numbers is a subset of the set of all numbers

More from Merriam-Webster on subset

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!