subject matter

noun

Synonyms of subject matternext
: matter presented for consideration in discussion, thought, or study

Examples of subject matter in a Sentence

I found the film's subject matter to be quite disturbing. She disapproves of the artist's choice of subject matter.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Knowing that before an executive steps behind a podium is part of understanding the audience, just as knowing the technical subject matter is, too. — Amanda Simonian, Forbes.com, 16 Oct. 2026 JioHotstar’s show landed binge audiences, quite the feat for subject matter so dark. — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 16 Oct. 2026 His perspective on these dense subject matters comes through in the material. — Anthony Solorzano, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026 In his own practice, Nagy pondered heady subject matter related to the corporatization of art and transmission of ideas and images across the globe. — Alex Greenberger, ARTnews.com, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for subject matter

Word History

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of subject matter was in 1657

Rhymes for subject matter

See All Rhymes for subject matter

Browse Nearby Words

subjectless
subject matter
subject-object
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Subject matter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subject%20matter. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

subject matter

noun
: matter presented for consideration in discussion, thought, or study
the poem's subject matter

More from Merriam-Webster on subject matter

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for subject matter

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about subject matter

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