What does subeditor mean?
A subeditor is someone who assists a more senior editor, either by editing a particular body of copy or by managing a section of a publication. The position is common in books, newspapers, magazines, journals, and other editorial environments. A subeditor may proofread submissions, check factual details, revise writing, and prepare material for a chief or section editor's final approval. The title does not necessarily imply a routine promotion path to editor, because its meaning depends on the structure of the particular organization. In some publications, it denotes a junior editorial role; elsewhere, it identifies a person with substantial responsibility for a section or department. The term is understood in both British and American English, though formal titles and duties can differ between publishing traditions.
nounA person who assists an editor by editing material, especially a section or body of text within a publication. In some publishing organizations, the role is a formal position with particular editorial responsibilities.
- A person who assists an editor by editing assigned copy or material.
- A publishing employee responsible for editing a particular section or body of work under an editor.
"She worked as a subeditor on the magazine's literary review."
"The manuscript was sent to a subeditor for a preliminary review."
"He was appointed subeditor of the newspaper's culture section."
The regular plural of the noun is subeditors.
"The publication hired two subeditors for its review section."
Subeditor literally means an editor beneath another editor, but the title has long denoted a publishing role rather than a lower rank.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does subeditor come from?
Subeditor combines the Latin prefix sub-, meaning “under” or “below,” with editor, from Latin ēditor, meaning “one who brings out or publishes.” The compound therefore literally describes someone who edits under another editor. It entered English during the early modern period as publishing became a more organized profession, and its sense developed alongside the established title of editor.
How subeditor is actually used
The title is chiefly associated with book, newspaper, magazine, and academic publishing. Its exact duties vary by organization and may include editing copy, checking facts, and preparing material for final approval.
Easily confused with subeditor
A subeditor assists an editor or handles assigned material, while an editor has broader or overall responsibility for a publication or its editorial work.