subcategory

A subcategory is a category that is a subset of another category within a hierarchical classification system. It represents a narrower scope or more specialized topic than its parent category.

Subcategories inherit the properties of their parent categories but refine or extend them with additional criteria. They organize information, objects, or concepts to improve navigation, filtering, and precise retrieval.

In practical use, subcategories appear in libraries, content management, e-commerce, and data catalogs. Examples include Electronics with a subcategory Mobile Phones; Books with subcategories such as Fiction, which itself can include Science Fiction; and Clothing, with subcategories like Men's Clothing and Shirts. Subcategories help users drill down from broad topics to more specific items or subjects.

In biology and other sciences, the term can appear in information systems, though formal taxonomic ranks include terms such as subfamily or subspecies rather than the generic “subcategory.” The concept remains relevant for databases and ontologies that organize data hierarchically.

Governance and naming are important considerations. Clear scope definitions, consistent naming conventions, and rules for when to create a new subcategory help maintain navigability and prevent overlap or fragmentation. Regular review ensures that the taxonomy remains aligned with user needs and evolving content.

See also: category, taxonomy, ontology, classification.