subdivide

UK: ˌsʌbdɪˈvaɪd | US: ˌsʌbdɪˈvaɪd

Definition

  1. vt. to divide (something already divided) into smaller parts

  2. vt. to partition or separate into subdivisions

  3. vi. to undergo further division

Structure
sub <under, secondary>divide <to separate>sub <under, secondary>divide <to separate>
Etymology

The word subdivide emerged in Late Middle English (15th century), combining Latin sub- (denoting a secondary action) with divide. It reflects the logical progression of taking an already divided entity and partitioning it further. The prefix sub- adds the nuance of "additional division," making the term precise for hierarchical or layered separation (e.g., land plots, categories).

Examples

  1. The developer plans to subdivide the large estate into smaller residential lots.

  2. Biologists subdivide species into subspecies based on genetic variations.

  3. The chapter is subdivided into three sections for clarity.

  4. Over time, cells subdivide to form complex tissues.

  5. The committee voted to subdivide the budget into discrete allocations.