subsume

verb

sub·​sume səb-ˈsüm How to pronounce subsume (audio)
subsumed; subsuming
Synonyms of subsumenext

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 adjective

Examples of subsume in a Sentence

games and team sports are subsumed under the classification of “recreation”
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
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 The pair previously had an overall deal at Showtime, but with that brand now subsumed into Paramount+, Lyle and Nickerson’s home will move to Paramount’s studio side. Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 23 Feb. 2026 Neither is the machine that, partway through the play, noisily turns the stage into a great berg of foam, which slowly subsumes a resigned Kramer. Talya Zax, The Atlantic, 21 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for subsume

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of subsume was in 1818

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Subsume.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subsume. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

subsume

verb
sub·​sume səb-ˈsüm How to pronounce subsume (audio)
subsumed; subsuming
: to include or place within something larger or more general
red and green are subsumed under the term "color"
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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