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.
But here, the subplot just hangs pointlessly in the air. Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 7 Feb. 2025 There is also a subplot involving River’s cat, Pusila, that creates ample opportunity for obvious jokes, which feel altogether too on the nose. EW.com, 6 Feb. 2025 Ally and Jay’s rom-com caricature is the cleverest subplot in the movie — the pair are heightened Hallmark Channel ingenues who like fiddly coffee orders, coordinated plaids and the same shade of taupe. Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 5 Feb. 2025 For all of the subplots in a game featuring the top two seeds in the AFC, don’t overthink what determined the outcome: the two quarterbacks. Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 28 Jan. 2025 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 12 Feb. 2025.

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

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