subcompact

noun

sub·​com·​pact ˈsəb-ˈkäm-ˌpakt How to pronounce subcompact (audio)
Synonyms of subcompactnext
: an automobile smaller than a compact

Examples of subcompact 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.
It's based on the company's MQB platform, which underpins the T-Cross subcompact SUV and the Polo hatchback. — Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 26 Aug. 2026 The Kona competes against popular subcompact SUV models like the Mazda CX-30 and Honda HR-V. — Charles Singh, USA Today, 26 Aug. 2026 Many of the once-popular subcompact options have disappeared, such as the Chevy Spark and the Hyundai Accent. — Beth Livesay, AJC.com, 21 Aug. 2026 Kia America The X-Line SX’s available heated and ventilated seats, driver memory system, heated steering wheel, panoramic roof and surround-view camera would not have appeared in a mainstream subcompact SUV a few years ago. — Karl Brauer, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for subcompact

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of subcompact was in 1960

Rhymes for subcompact

See All Rhymes for subcompact

Browse Nearby Words

subcommunity
subcompact
subcompany
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Cite this Entry

“Subcompact.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subcompact. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

subcompact

noun
sub·​com·​pact ˈsəb-ˈkäm-ˌpakt How to pronounce subcompact (audio)
: an automobile smaller than a compact

More from Merriam-Webster on subcompact

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for subcompact

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