subclass

noun

sub·​class ˈsəb-ˌklas How to pronounce subclass (audio)
Synonyms of subclassnext
: 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
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.
What makes a subclass meaningful to you? Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 20 Jan. 2026 Anthocyanins are a type of flavonoid (a subclass of polyphenols) that act as powerful antioxidants and give fruits and vegetables their red, purple, and blue colors. Lauren Panoff, Verywell Health, 13 Jan. 2026 Given this factual issue, determination of plaintiffs' final class certification motion-which seeks certification not only of the Unassessed Escape Risk Class but also of the broader Warrantless Arrests Class and the Immigration Status subclass—will be addressed at a subsequent time. New York Times, 2 Dec. 2025 There are also subclasses that offer further specialization. Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 10 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for subclass

Word History

First Known Use

1720, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of subclass was in 1720

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Subclass.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subclass. Accessed 29 Jan. 2026.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on subclass

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