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

There is a subplot with Punk and Lee losing their beloved elderly dog Larry. — Darren Cooper, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

Ferran Torres, who hadn’t scored all tournament, getting the winner in the final from an assist by Nico Williams, who had fitness issues throughout, was a nice subplot. — Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 20 July 2026

The King vs the Prince The clash of styles is one subplot but arguably not as exciting as the prospect of Messi coming up against Lamine Yamal. — Ben Church, CNN Money, 19 July 2026

Their storylines are strong enough to keep audiences engaged even when convoluted subplots and unnecessary diversions bog down the main narrative between Judith and Debbie. — Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 15 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

subplot

noun

sub·​plot ˈsəb-ˌplät 

: a subordinate plot in fiction or drama