subclass

noun

sub·​class ˈsəb-ˌklas How to pronounce subclass (audio)
: a primary division of a class: such as
a
: a category in biological classification ranking below a class and above an order

Examples of subclass in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Combat Mod Rework – There is an absolutely massive overhaul of all combat mods coming with the new armor charge system, which blends elements of Charged with Light and Elemental Wells, and some Well abilities have been put into subclass 3.0 builds instead. Paul Tassi, Forbes, 18 Feb. 2023 But of course the appeal is going through leveling different classes and subclasses, and one significant difference from Diablo 4 is that there is a good amount of commitment required to a class and build. Paul Tassi, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2024 There are no subclasses or spells, and the new magic items are mostly there as the subjects of one of the heists. Rob Wieland, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2023 Anthocyanins are a subclass of the polyphenols that give the apple peel much of its red color. Janet Colson, Discover Magazine, 13 Aug. 2023 Quasars are a subclass of active galactic nuclei (AGNs), according to the European Space Agency (ESA), the hearts of large galaxies which are extremely active and bright. Robert Lea, Popular Mechanics, 13 June 2023 Lastly, the complaint includes a subclass of plaintiffs seeking damages for the use of their NIL in broadcast deals. Thomas Baker, Forbes, 5 May 2023 The new subclass—known as the Flight III class—includes a new, more powerful SPY-6 radar, new Rolls-Royce generators capable of generating 33 percent more electricity (12,000 kilowatts total), and 96 vertical-launch system missile silos. Kyle Mizokami, Popular Mechanics, 21 Mar. 2023 But the ancient Romans had their own versions, garum and liquamen (which may have been synonyms or distinct types or one a subclass of the other; scholars differ). Ligaya Mishan, New York Times, 1 Mar. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'subclass.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1720, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of subclass was in 1720

Dictionary Entries Near subclass

Cite this Entry

“Subclass.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subclass. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

subclass

noun
sub·​class ˈsəb-ˌklas How to pronounce subclass (audio)
: a category in biological classification ranking below a class and above an order

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