subtext

American  

[suhb-tekst] / ˈsʌbˌtɛkst /

noun

1. the underlying or implicit meaning, as of a literary work.

---

subtext British  

/ ˈsʌbˌtɛkst /

noun

1. an underlying theme in a piece of writing

2. a message which is not stated directly but can be inferred

---

Other Word Forms

• subtextual adjective

Etymology

Origin of subtext

1945–50; translation of Russian podtékst; sub-, text

Example Sentences

The score has a military subtext—trumpets and drums are always interrupting happy scenes, and an ominous horn theme plays a major role.

From The Wall Street Journal

His version of the number, expertly balancing camp with sincerity, was a complete delight — and utterly devoid of sinister subtext.

From Los Angeles Times

Yet the subtext is less important than the surface: The movie is simply a witless bore.

From The Wall Street Journal

All this and a subtext of relationships among the leading artists of the period.

From The Wall Street Journal

The subtext: The judge didn’t need to impose harsh penalties; the market would take care of itself.

From The Wall Street Journal