1. a secondary or subordinate plot in a novel, play, or movie that runs alongside the main story
Usage: literature; film

Examples

• The romantic subplot between the two supporting characters added depth to the main story.
• Shakespeare often included comic subplots in his tragedies to provide relief from the serious action.
• The movie’s subplot about the detective’s personal life distracted from the central mystery.
• Critics praised how the author wove multiple subplots together seamlessly.
• The novel’s main plot follows the war, while a subplot explores the friendship between two soldiers.
• The television series introduced a new subplot involving the mayor’s corruption scandal.