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
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Becky Ann Baker appears in one to scene as a plausibly manipulative mother-in-law to provide dramatic motivation for a crucial subplot. Vikram Murthi, IndieWire, 10 Dec. 2025 Blair wanted to keep readers in mind through placement of easter eggs in Season 1 despite the show’s divergence from the book’s timeline and certain character subplots like Quinn’s piano background and mentor. Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 8 Dec. 2025 Cawthon establishes multiple rules and subplots only to later completely disregard them. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 6 Dec. 2025 That will be another subplot to track if the three-time All-Star backstop re-signs relatively soon. Jackson Roberts, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Dec. 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 15 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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