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subplot

noun

sub·​plot ˈsəb-ˌplät How to pronounce subplot (audio)
Synonyms of subplotnext
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
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.
Aside from a small subplot where Robin strikes up a flirtation with classmate Vickie (Amybeth McNulty), season four was not very gay. Abby Monteil, Them., 3 Dec. 2025 The cast surrounding her has great comedic timing, and the subplot involving Siaja’s mother Neevee (Maika Harper) and a returning flame from her past (Jay Ryan) is one of the season’s most moving. Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 1 Dec. 2025 This newfound power hints at a broader origin story linked to the show’s long-running subplots. Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2025 There’s also the family subplot. Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 25 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for subplot

Word History

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of subplot was in 1812

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Cite this Entry

“Subplot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subplot. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

subplot

noun
sub·​plot ˈsəb-ˌplät How to pronounce subplot (audio)
: a subordinate plot in fiction or drama

More from Merriam-Webster on subplot

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