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

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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

Greenblatt’s Pulitzer Prize-winning depiction of Renaissance chaos (The Swerve, in 2011) lends intrigue and intellectual context to the Shakespeares’ emotional ordeal — becoming an extraordinary subtext to the Hamlet play. —Peter Bart, Deadline, 4 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

Cultural nuance, emotionally complex interactions, humor and subtext remain challenging. —Adam Mills, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Nov. 2025

There seems to be a united front in regard to not explaining the themes and subtext of the show. —Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 17 Nov. 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