subdivide

[suhb-di-vahyd, suhb-di-vahyd]

verb (used with object)

subdivided, subdividing 

1. to divide (that which has already been divided) into smaller parts; divide again after a first division.

2. to divide into parts.

3. to divide (a plot, tract of land, etc.) into building lots.

verb (used without object)

subdivided, subdividing 

1. to become separated into divisions.

subdivide

/ ˌsʌbdɪˈvaɪd, ˈsʌbdɪˌvaɪd /

verb

1. to divide (something) resulting from an earlier division

2. (tr) to divide (land) into lots for sale

Other Word Forms

• subdivider noun
• subdividable adjective
• unsubdivided adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of subdivide¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English word from Late Latin word subdīvīdere. See sub-, divide

Example Sentences

Titanic estates have dotted L.A. over the last century, but most have been whittled down by developers subdividing the lots and selling them as separate properties.

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He said larger empty stores needed to be refurbished "and perhaps subdivided down to smaller units" to attract new tenants.

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From tree stumps and rocks, the spiny reptiles basked and watched as wooden fences subdivided the landscape.

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Or, he could apply to subdivide the lots into multiple smaller ownerships.

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To demonstrate, Close’s meticulously detailed head of mustachioed “Robert,” 9 feet tall, is installed next to its maquette, an enlarged and subdivided black-and-white photograph overlaid with a tight grid.

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