imperceptible

[ im-per-sep-tuh-buhl ]

adjective

1. very slight, gradual, or subtle:

   the imperceptible slope of the road.

2. not perceptible; not perceived by or affecting the senses.

   Synonyms: undetectable, unperceivable, hidden

noun

1. something not capable of being perceived by the senses:

   metaphysical speculation about imperceptibles.

imperceptible

/ ˌɪmpəˈsɛptɪbəl /

adjective

1. too slight, subtle, gradual, etc, to be perceived

Derived Forms

• ˌimperˈceptibly, adverb
• ˌimperˌceptiˈbility, noun

Other Words From

• imper·cepti·bili·ty imper·cepti·ble·ness noun
• imper·cepti·bly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of imperceptible¹

From the Medieval Latin word imperceptibilis, dating back to 1520–30. See im- ², perceptible

Example Sentences

If you look at the map below the change is almost imperceptible.

From BBC

For Riley, the finish line she is approaching is neither cloaked in neon nor so thin as to be imperceptible.

From Los Angeles Times

For others, it’s thin and all but imperceptible.

From Los Angeles Times

The graceful observations of “Janet Planet” render the two characters’ development almost imperceptible, hidden behind silences and what goes unsaid.

From New York Times

Perhaps the two bighorn sheep were fighting over territory or food, or maybe there was some ovine slight imperceptible to human eyes.

From Salon

Related Words

• gradual
• inaudible
• indistinguishable
• insignificant
• invisible
• microscopic
• subtle
• undetectable