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
There was also a subplot about Derek going through a painful divorce.
—
Rob Reiner, New Yorker, 27 Aug. 2025
One thing to watch out for If, and then how, Slot deploys Gravenberch will be a key subplot of a game already brimming with them, but the opposing midfield setup has the potential to be just as intriguing.
—Jack Bantock, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2025
But the broad definition of pressure applied below is a vehicle for the Hotline to address several subplots set to unfold this fall throughout the endlessly fascinating Big 12.
—Jon Wilner, Mercury News, 18 Aug. 2025
As is Lee’s wont, the film meanders through some vivid, if unnecessary subplots.
—Tim Grierson, Vulture, 16 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for subplot
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.
Rob Reiner, New Yorker, 27 Aug. 2025
One thing to watch out for If, and then how, Slot deploys Gravenberch will be a key subplot of a game already brimming with them, but the opposing midfield setup has the potential to be just as intriguing.
—Jack Bantock, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2025
But the broad definition of pressure applied below is a vehicle for the Hotline to address several subplots set to unfold this fall throughout the endlessly fascinating Big 12.
—Jon Wilner, Mercury News, 18 Aug. 2025
As is Lee’s wont, the film meanders through some vivid, if unnecessary subplots.
—Tim Grierson, Vulture, 16 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for subplot
Cite this Entry
“Subplot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subplot. Accessed 4 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
subplot
noun
sub·plot
ˈsəb-ˌplät
: a subordinate plot in fiction or drama
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share