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

Examples of subset in a Sentence

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

But, this property actually belongs to a small subset of Autograph Collection properties that are classified within Marriott’s luxury tier as a result of the its range of offerings and past guest feedback. — Ramsey Qubein, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026

In other words, the state’s interests in safety and competitive fairness are not furthered by sweeping up for exclusion that subset of trans girls, along with all biological males. — Jeannie Suk Gersen, New Yorker, 1 July 2026

But a subset of patients can experience major depression during summer months because of the load heat puts on the brain. — Mark Prussin, CBS News, 29 June 2026

Applying frosting is one of the few things that cannot be said to be a subset of Haaland’s métier; after tossing his balky piping bag aside in frustration, the Norseman issued an expletive that was deemed bleep-worthy by Fox’s Standards & Practices crew. — Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 26 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for subset

• abet
• asset
• baguette
• banquette
• barbette
• beget
• beset
• binet
• briquette
• brunet
• brunette
• burette

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