Definition

The situation where a person rents a property from someone who is already renting it from the owner.

Example

After signing the lease, she decided to enter into a subtenancy with her friend.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about subtenancy when renting a place?

I haven’t really considered it, to be honest. What’s that like?

It can be a great way to save money if you find the right situation.

That makes sense! I might look into subtenancy for my next apartment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subtenancy → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under) and "tenere" (meaning to hold). The word refers to a situation where one party holds a lease or rental agreement under another party's lease, thus holding under the primary tenant.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'holding' ('tenere') a lease 'under' ('sub-') another person's lease — that's what subtenancy means.

Visually Confused Words