subject matter

noun

: matter presented for consideration in discussion, thought, or study

Examples of subject matter in a Sentence

I found the film's subject matter to be quite disturbing.

She disapproves of the artist's choice of subject matter.

Recent Examples on the Web

Not to in any way dismiss the subject matter or [employees’] passion for complete representation within the company. — Todd Spangler, Variety, 28 Sep. 2026

And the subject matter is something that’s very deeply important to me. — Carly Thomas, HollywoodReporter, 25 Sep. 2026

Ultimately, the exhibition repositions fashion as a vital thread within his broader subject matter and an aspect of his work that deserves to be reclaimed. — Tonya Blazio-Licorish, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 2026

Despite their pointy protrusions, the sculptures are not spiky enough to leave a mark; and despite their flirtations with touchy subject matter, none of the works—not even the 9/11 ones—are vulgar enough to get Wolfson in hot water. — Alex Greenberger, ARTnews.com, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for subject matter

• antimatter
• atter
• batter
• blatter
• catarrh
• chatter
• clatter
• fatter
• flatter
• hatter
• latter
• natter

Kids Definition

subject matter

noun

: matter presented for consideration in discussion, thought, or study

the poem's subject matter