subentry: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Technical
Quick answer
What does “subentry” mean?
A secondary or subordinate entry within a larger main entry, typically in a dictionary, list, or database.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A secondary or subordinate entry within a larger main entry, typically in a dictionary, list, or database.
Any item, category, or concept that is logically or structurally nested under a larger, primary item.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The spelling is consistent.
Connotations
Neutral and technical in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally rare in general use but standard within specialist fields in both the UK and US.
Grammar
How to Use “subentry” in a Sentence
subentry for [word/phrase]subentry under [main entry]subentry in [dictionary/index]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “subentry” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The lexicographer added a subentry for the phrasal verb under the main verb.
- Check the subentry for regional pronunciations in the Oxford dictionary.
American English
- The index has a subentry for each notable case under the main legal term.
- Define the compound word as a subentry in the glossary.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might be used in database or taxonomy design documentation.
Academic
Common in linguistics, lexicography, and library science texts discussing structural organisation.
Everyday
Virtually never used in casual conversation.
Technical
The primary context. Standard term in dictionary making, indexing, and knowledge organisation systems.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “subentry”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “subentry”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “subentry”
- Using 'subentry' to mean a minor or less important point in an essay or argument (incorrect).
- Spelling as two words: 'sub entry' (less common).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is standardly written as one word: 'subentry'.
No, it is exclusively a noun. The related action would be 'to enter as a subentry' or 'to subcategorise'.
A subentry is a full, defined item placed under a main entry. A cross-reference is a pointer directing the user to look elsewhere for information, not a definition in itself.
No, dictionary styles vary. Some list all items alphabetically as main entries, while others (especially learner's and historical dictionaries) use a hierarchical system with subentries.
A secondary or subordinate entry within a larger main entry, typically in a dictionary, list, or database.
Subentry is usually formal, technical in register.
Subentry: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsʌbˌɛntri/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsʌbˌɛntri/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None. This is a technical term not used idiomatically.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a SUBmarine ENTRY: it goes under the main surface (the main entry).
Conceptual Metaphor
HIERARCHY IS VERTICALITY (The subentry is 'below' the main entry).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'subentry' most precisely and commonly used?