plot device

is not in our dictionary (yet). Here's what it could mean:

Confidence: high

Results generated using artificial intelligence.

noun

A narrative element, such as an object, event, or character, introduced into a story primarily to advance the storyline or resolve a complication.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Prime Video’s “The Summer I Turned Pretty” takes this plot device to a stressful extreme by pitting two brothers against each other as they jockey for the affection of their longtime friend.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 26, 2025

The handling of this plot device, with the canny veteran Reid wandering in and out of the drama like an informational time bomb, is a little clumsy.

From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 13, 2025

Thesaurus

Possible Synonyms

Words in our thesaurus

deus ex machina

other words

literary technique
get-out-of-jail-free card
narrative shortcut
the thing that makes the story go
storytelling element

Possible Antonyms

thematic element
character development
deep lore
the 'why' of the story
organic storytelling