subplot

noun

sub·​plot ˈsəb-ˌplät How to pronounce subplot (audio)
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.
The Biggest Undercard Fight on the Card Tony Harrison’s return to the ring is one of the more intriguing subplots on the Shields-Daniels undercard. Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 26 July 2025 In one of that episode's subplots, Charlotte (Kristin Davis) tries to volunteer with an organization that provides guides for the blind. EW.com, 25 July 2025 Ditto for subplots about Jessica’s co-workers, including director Janicza Bravo (Zola) as a fellow expat exploring her sexuality, the great Richard E. Grant as Jessica’s uptight boss, Andrew Scott as a pretentious director, and Naomi Watts as Grant’s seemingly perfect wife. Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 11 July 2025 A number of subplots have been added to spice up the recipe, though none of them has much substance. Paul Mungo, HollywoodReporter, 7 July 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Subplot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subplot. Accessed 14 Aug. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!