subtext

noun

sub·​text ˈsəb-ˌtekst 

: the implicit or metaphorical meaning (as of a literary text)

subtextual

ˌsəb-ˈteks-chə-wəl 

-chəl

adjective

subtextually adverb

Did you know?

A literary text often has more than one meaning: the literal meaning of the words on the page, and their hidden meaning, what exists "between the lines"—the subtext. Arthur Miller's play The Crucible, for example, is about the Salem witchcraft trials of the 17th century, but its subtext is the comparison of those trials with the "witch hunts" of the 1950s, when many people were unfairly accused of being communists. Even a social conversation between a man and a woman may have a subtext, but you may have to listen very closely to figure out what it is. Don't confuse subtext with subplot, a less important plot that moves along in parallel with the main plot.

Examples of subtext in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The man does not know subtext; only text. —Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 19 Dec. 2025

Isaac is happy this version also delves into the subtext and more subtle themes this timeless tale holds, not simply as just a monster movie. —Pete Hammond, Deadline, 13 Dec. 2025

The wheels are always turning, the subtext is layered with even more questions, and even the one-liners pack a weighty punch. —Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 9 Dec. 2025

There is also the subtext of McLaren’s steadfast commitment through 2025 to ensure parity in their drivers’ opportunities to win this world championship. —Luke Smith, New York Times, 1 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for subtext

• complexed
• deflexed
• perplexed
• plaintext
• pretext
• reflexed
• ciphertext
• hypertext
• multiplexed
• teletext
• flexed
• next