A more thorough explanation:

Definition: A subaltern is a person who holds a lower rank or position of authority than someone else.

Example 1: In the military, a subaltern is a junior officer who is below the rank of captain.

Example 2: In a company, a subaltern might be a supervisor who reports to a manager.

These examples illustrate how a subaltern is someone who is in a position of lesser authority than someone else. In the military, a subaltern is below the rank of captain, which means they have less responsibility and authority than a captain. Similarly, in a company, a subaltern might be a supervisor who reports to a manager, which means they have less authority and decision-making power than the manager.