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Definition of subpar

subpar

/ˌsʌbˈpɑːr/
sub · par
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subpar Lexical Profile

subpar Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Below an average, normal, or expected level of quality or performance; inferior.

Example

"The restaurant received poor reviews because of its subpar customer service and lukewarm food."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for subpar
Antonyms
View all antonyms for subpar

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'under par' in golf denotes a good score (fewer strokes than the standard), 'subpar' in general usage almost always means inferior or below an expected standard of quality.

• Rhymes for subpar

• Nearby Words

subordinate
subordination
suborganization
subpar
subparagraph
subpart
subplot

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 20th century from the Latin prefix 'sub-' (meaning 'below') and 'par' (meaning 'equal' or 'standard level'), originally referencing stock values below face value or golf scores before broadening to general quality.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Subpar. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/subpar
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