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

But whether he, or his Japanese Dodgers teammates, will pitch in the tournament will remain a subplot as the offseason progresses.

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A core subplot in the film involves Ella’s father, played with an unctuous, desperate charm by Harrelson, reappearing in her life after many years with his own agenda.

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In this case, it’s a subplot about despondent self-deporting animals who resolve to flee Oz because their home has become hostile to their kind: “We can’t stay here. It’s become rotten,” says a bear.

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“Gorg’s subplot is quite robust because he’s been an only child for all this time,” Henson says.

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Clients of Grant, Ronson, Greene & Associates escape their marriage shackles with a hoard of treasure — there’s an entire subplot pinned to bidding on a brooch in a Christie’s auction, in fact.

Read more on Salon