subplot
noun
sub·plot
ˈsəb-ˌplät 
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
Screenwriter Jack Thorne, working from the character created by author Nancy Springer, throws all manner of secrets, sunken treasure and a British colonialism subplot into a convoluted mix.
—
ABC News,
1 July 2026
Lasdun, by contrast, insists on delivering a meticulous retelling of the Murdaugh case, complete with byzantine subplots involving the suspicious death of the family’s housekeeper and the murder of another local teenager.
—
Literary Hub,
25 June 2026
With five goals in just two matches, Messi's prolific start has ignited an exciting goal-scoring rivalry with France's Kylian Mbappe, who also has 16 career goals, promising a captivating subplot for the tournament.
—
Michael Lewis,
Forbes.com,
23 June 2026
Although not being anyone’s main focus this summer, the Golden Boot race is proving to be a fascinating subplot that will have plenty of twists and turns before the final next month.
—
Ben Church,
CNN Money,
23 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for subplot
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ABC News,
1 July 2026
Lasdun, by contrast, insists on delivering a meticulous retelling of the Murdaugh case, complete with byzantine subplots involving the suspicious death of the family’s housekeeper and the murder of another local teenager.
—
Literary Hub,
25 June 2026
With five goals in just two matches, Messi's prolific start has ignited an exciting goal-scoring rivalry with France's Kylian Mbappe, who also has 16 career goals, promising a captivating subplot for the tournament.
—
Michael Lewis,
Forbes.com,
23 June 2026
Although not being anyone’s main focus this summer, the Golden Boot race is proving to be a fascinating subplot that will have plenty of twists and turns before the final next month.
—
Ben Church,
CNN Money,
23 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for subplot
Cite this Entry
“Subplot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subplot. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
subplot
noun
sub·plot
ˈsəb-ˌplät
: a subordinate plot in fiction or drama
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