subplot

noun

sub·plot ˈsəb-ˌplät

Synonyms of subplot

: a subordinate plot in fiction or drama

: a subdivision of an experimental plot of land

Examples of subplot in a Sentence

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.

The actual titular story of this premiere is more of a wacky subplot. — Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026 In a sense, The Eighth Wonder, with its subplot to do with writing a film script about an Indigenous poet lauded by millions, whom nobody genuinely knows, also translates this documentary about Borges, with its many images, into a different plot. — Literary Hub, 26 Aug. 2026 The intriguing subplot is whether CBS will try to void the final four years (and $72 million) of Romo’s regrettable 10-year, $180 million deal by citing a moral clause that is standard in broadcast contracts. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 24 Aug. 2026 The movie’s only weak link is an underdeveloped romantic subplot involving CODA’s Emilia Jones. — The Week Us, TheWeek, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for subplot

Word History

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of subplot was in 1812

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Browse Nearby Words

subplinth

subplot

subplow

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Subplot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subplot. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

subplot

noun

sub·plot ˈsəb-ˌplät

: a subordinate plot in fiction or drama

subplot

noun

Examples of subplot in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

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