subcontractor
subcontractor. One who is awarded a portion of an existing contract by a contractor, esp. a general contractor. • For example, a contractor who builds houses typically retains subcontractors to perform specialty work such as installing plumbing, laying carpet, making cabinetry, and landscaping — each subcontractor is paid a somewhat lesser sum than the contractor receives for the work. [Cases: Contracts 177. C.J.S. Contracts § 363.]