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

The story line may have some grounding in Marilyn’s own reliance on Lee Strasberg’s coaching and the subplot in season one of the show in which Ivy hallucinates on prednisone, but the jokes are easy and get old within the first minute of watching Nielsen mutter in Hurder’s ear. —Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 11 Apr. 2025

Basically, ever since the moment Timothy got everyone to give up their screens, that entire subplot came to a screeching halt. —Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025

Can Viola pull off her elaborate scheme and continue playing soccer, or will her plan fall apart Appropriate for: Ages 12+ Perfect for: Tweens and teens who enjoy a romantic subplot 'Big Fat Liar' In this 2002 film, Amanda Bynes stars opposite another ‘00s teen star, Frankie Muniz. —Kara Nesvig, Parents, 12 Mar. 2025

There are a lot of subplots afoot here, and not all of them completely land. —EW.com, 4 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

subplot

noun

sub·​plot ˈsəb-ˌplät 

: a subordinate plot in fiction or drama