subcompact

noun

sub·​com·​pact ˈsəb-ˈkäm-ˌpakt How to pronounce subcompact (audio)
Synonyms of subcompactnext
: an automobile smaller than a compact

Examples of subcompact in a Sentence

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.
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax is a great little subcompact. — New Atlas, 29 Mar. 2026 Adjusting fees by vehicle weight also seems crucial because a large SUV wears down roads faster than a subcompact. — Justin Fox, Twin Cities, 12 May 2026 For several years now, Europeans have been able to buy the Jeep Avenger, a subcompact crossover that will surely never see American roads. — Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 13 Jan. 2026 At Tesla Superchargers The Bolt is a city-smart subcompact SUV. — Brooke Crothers, Forbes.com, 11 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for subcompact

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of subcompact was in 1960

Rhymes for subcompact

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Browse Nearby Words

subcommunity
subcompact
subcompany
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Cite this Entry

“Subcompact.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subcompact. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

subcompact

noun
sub·​com·​pact ˈsəb-ˈkäm-ˌpakt How to pronounce subcompact (audio)
: an automobile smaller than a compact

More from Merriam-Webster on subcompact

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for subcompact

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