Definition of story linenext
as in story
the unfolding of events in a dramatic or literary work the story line is clumsily interrupted several times to provide some much-needed background information

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of story line There were plenty of compelling story lines taking shape as the sun began to dip on the legendary course. Los Angeles Times, 8 June 2026 Did the two of you originate the sibling storylines on this series? Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 27 June 2026 The show’s main storyline follows Mavis’ attempts to retake the reins of her love life. Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 23 June 2026 Kenny is the kind of character who doesn’t just shine in group dynamics and fights but also brings a personal story line. Brian Moylan, Vulture, 17 June 2026 But for one Season 2 storyline, the producers were inspired by something that actually happened on set. Michael Schneider, Variety, 22 June 2026 That this hyper-relevant story line is told mostly from a refreshing female perspective illustrates a big reason why this series is still going strong after more than three decades. Randy Myers, Mercury News, 16 June 2026 However, the executive producers revealed that some Gen V storylines will play out elsewhere in the franchise. Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 23 June 2026 Multiple story lines in the first season are fuelled by the fear that one spouse is aging faster than the other, whether physically or psychologically—an underexplored but undoubtedly common anxiety among couples approaching retirement age. Inkoo Kang, New Yorker, 15 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for story line
Noun
  • This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
    David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 5 July 2026
  • Gil was trapped beneath more than 100 tons of rubble after the partial collapse of the Galerias Playa Grande commercial center, which includes buildings nine and four stories tall.
    Mery Mogollón, Los Angeles Times, 5 July 2026
Noun
  • Prosecutors say the aim of the plot was to permanently disrupt gas deliveries via the pipelines and prevent Russia from using the revenues from natural gas trading to finance its military operations.
    ABC News, ABC News, 2 July 2026
  • That minimalist approach to plot has allowed the show to find its own lane.
    Sara Netzley, Entertainment Weekly, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • Blanche has previously defended the DOJ's actions in response to the transparency law.
    Aysha Bagchi, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • Other signs of scam communications include requesting money or sensitive information, threatening legal action or arrest or pressuring the victim to take immediate action, a Microsoft spokesperson told the Herald.
    Ella Moore July 2, Miami Herald, 2 July 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Story line.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/story%20line. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

More from Merriam-Webster