subset

noun

sub·​set ˈsəb-ˌset 

1

: a set each of whose elements is an element of an inclusive set

2

: division, portion

a subset of our community

Example Sentences

The set {1,2,3} is a subset of the set {1,2,3,4,5}.

Only a small subset of the patients in the study experienced these side effects.

Recent Examples on the Web

For a subset of reptiles, including Argentine black and white tegus and Burmese pythons, owners can still keep the animals, but must tag and register them with the state within 12 months. Drew Kann, ajc, 23 Nov. 2022

But for Claire, the downsides pale in comparison to keeping her family healthy in the face of a virus that, for a subset of people who catch it, can potentially lead to life-long disability. Jamie Ducharme, Time, 23 Nov. 2022

Its staying power may be a testament to this approach, at least for a certain subset of users. Samantha Murphy Kelly, CNN, 20 Nov. 2022

Hiring for the small subset of the most critical, business-driving positions will continue, but all other roles are on hold. Alex Weprin, The Hollywood Reporter, 11 Nov. 2022

Hiring for the small subset of the most critical, business-driving positions will continue, but all other roles are on hold. Ryan Faughnder, Los Angeles Times, 11 Nov. 2022

Hiring for the small subset of the most critical, business-driving positions will continue, but all other roles are on hold. Jennifer Maas, Variety, 11 Nov. 2022

For this subset, $8 a month may not be worth it, no matter how many memes Musk posts about the cost of a cup of coffee. Barbara Ortutay, Fortune, 4 Nov. 2022

And for the subset of people who become sick enough to need clinical care, the consequences could get even worse. Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 29 Oct. 2022

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Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

subset

noun

sub·​set ˈsəb-ˌset 

: a mathematical set that is a part of another mathematical set

the set of even numbers is a subset of the set of all numbers