subsume

verb

sub·​sume səb-ˈsüm 

subsumed; subsuming

transitive verb

: to include or place within something larger or more comprehensive : encompass as a subordinate or component element

red, green, and yellow are subsumed under the term "color"

subsumable

səb-ˈsü-mə-bəl 

adjective

Synonyms of subsume

• include
• contain
• involve
• encompass
• carry

Examples of subsume in a Sentence

games and team sports are subsumed under the classification of “recreation”

Recent Examples on the Web

The worst part, though, is that her public image has subsumed Carolyn’s own idea of herself. —Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 13 Mar. 2026

Harry How / Getty Images Fantasy baseball was once the focal point of the fantasy industry, and now it’s been subsumed nearly completely by football, which gobbles up 75% of the market. —Michael Salfino, New York Times, 11 Mar. 2026

Year after year, the transit needs of the Baltimore region get subsumed. —Brandon Scott, Baltimore Sun, 25 Feb. 2026

Atonal loops bloom and fold into themselves, while the drums and synth, repeating on an infinite cycle, get subsumed by gigantic bass frequencies. —Dash Lewis, Pitchfork, 24 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin subsumere, from Latin sub- + sumere to take up — more at consume

First Known Use

1818, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for subsume

• assume
• backroom
• ballroom
• barroom
• bathroom
• bedroom
• boardroom
• bridegroom
• classroom
• cloakroom
• consume
• costume

Kids Definition

subsume

verb

sub·​sume səb-ˈsüm 

subsumed; subsuming

: to include or place within something larger or more general

red and green are subsumed under the term "color"