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
Benton easily embodies both Z’s everyday worries, her larger concerns, and an off-kilter dream-y subplot that takes us squarely inside the character’s head.
—
Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 16 June 2026
That was one of seven games Andreas identified as ones to watch due to their intriguing subplots.
—Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 12 June 2026
The world-building and political subplot blew my mind, but the experience of main character Ender at space military academy is what really stuck with me.
—Brianne Kane, Scientific American, 12 June 2026
Sarnoski’s version likewise recasts the female character as a benevolent force, and is largely stripped of romance — though permits itself a streak of sentimentality in a subplot concerning the grizzled outlaw’s gentle bond with a young girl.
—Guy Lodge, Variety, 11 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for subplot
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.
Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 16 June 2026
That was one of seven games Andreas identified as ones to watch due to their intriguing subplots.
—Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 12 June 2026
The world-building and political subplot blew my mind, but the experience of main character Ender at space military academy is what really stuck with me.
—Brianne Kane, Scientific American, 12 June 2026
Sarnoski’s version likewise recasts the female character as a benevolent force, and is largely stripped of romance — though permits itself a streak of sentimentality in a subplot concerning the grizzled outlaw’s gentle bond with a young girl.
—Guy Lodge, Variety, 11 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 24 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
subplot
noun
sub·plot
ˈsəb-ˌplät
: a subordinate plot in fiction or drama
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
