subtext

[suhb-tekst] / ˈsʌbˌtɛkst /

NOUN

implicit meaning

Synonyms

STRONG

connotation

WEAK

association coloring hint implication meaning nuance understanding undertone

Antonyms

STRONGEST

denotation

STRONG

declaration

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

We have not been giving the big guy his own entries recently, since he’s the subtext of all of them.

From Slate • Mar. 14, 2026

“Frankenstein” is rich with subtext yet highly accessible.

From Salon • Mar. 8, 2026

This is just one way “Crime 101” completely whiffs the subtext.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 12, 2026

That is exactly what he did today, but with a clear subtext: the events of the last 48 hours or so had crossed a rubicon.

From BBC • Jan. 19, 2026

I'm not saying it doesn’t happen a lot, because there’s this hidden emotional subtext with Leah, and I’m always missing it.

From "Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda" by Becky Albertalli