subset

noun

sub·​set ˈsəb-ˌset 

1

: a set each of whose elements is an element of an inclusive set

2

: division, portion

a subset of our community

Examples of subset in a Sentence

The set {1,2,3} is a subset of the set {1,2,3,4,5}.

Only a small subset of the patients in the study experienced these side effects.

Recent Examples on the Web

This approach might appeal to a subset of investors who believe that bitcoin will continue to appreciate, but prefer having a nominal floor under their investment. —Dave Birnbaum, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025

And early last month, a subset of clinical trials were among the first studies that NIH leadership said could have their grant funds unfrozen (though many payment halts continued in the weeks after). —Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 27 Mar. 2025

This post contains details about the White Lotus, Season 3 episode ‘Denials’ As this season of The White Lotus continues to push the limits of Mike White’s imagination, a particular subset of the audience is not happy. —Glenn Garner, Deadline, 26 Mar. 2025

But a subset of the data seen as an indicator for investment by businesses flipped from growth to contraction. —Stan Choe, Los Angeles Times, 26 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for subset

• abet
• asset
• baguette
• banquette
• barbette
• beget
• beset
• brevet
• briquette
• brunet
• brunette
• burette

Kids Definition

subset

noun

sub·​set ˈsəb-ˌset 

: a mathematical set that is a part of another mathematical set

the set of even numbers is a subset of the set of all numbers