subplot

[suhb-plot]

noun

1. a secondary or subordinate plot, as in a play, novel, or other literary work; underplot.

subplot

/ ˈsʌbˌplɒt /

noun

1. a subordinate or auxiliary plot in a novel, play, film, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of subplot¹

First recorded in 1915–20; sub- + plot

Example Sentences

The subplot of Lola trying to find her biological family is cut off when her brother reveals himself to be inconveniently mentally ill.

From Los Angeles Times

"Right now, inflation is a key subplot, but the labor market is still the main story," said Ellen Zentner, chief economic strategist for Morgan Stanley Wealth Management.

From BBC

Awarding it eight out of 10, Bowie commented, "could be a good subplot".

From BBC

In a season where a major subplot revolves around what women lose in high society divorces, George and Bertha look like romantic figures — affectionate with each other, and concerned about their children’s happiness.

From Salon

That brings us to the subplot of “Brazil” that resonates the loudest for today’s America: the arrest of an innocent man due to bureaucratic carelessness.

From Los Angeles Times