- 1
Senses relating to tangible things.; Of an action or movement: very delicate or slight, and thus barely noticeable; not obvious; inconspicuous, unintrusive.
- The mighty Magnet from the Center darts / This ſtrong, tho' ſubtile Force, thro' all the Parts: / Its active Rays ejaculated thence, / Irradiate all the wide Circumference.
- 2
Senses relating to tangible things.; Having a delicate or fine substance or texture; hence, exquisite, refined.archaic
- 3
Senses relating to tangible things.; Slender, thin.archaic
- 4
Senses relating to tangible things.; Of a substance: finely powdered; also, of particles of a substance: very fine or small.archaic
- 5
Senses relating to tangible things.; Of weight: after the tare (“weight of an empty container”) has been subtracted; net.archaic
- 6
Senses relating to tangible things.; Of a substance, especially a gas or liquid: of low density or thin consistency; rarefied, tenuous; hence, tending to spread everywhere due to this quality.historical
- 7
Senses relating to tangible things.; Synonym of subtile (“of a ship: narrow, slender”).obsolete
- 8
Senses relating to intangible things.; Of an argument or concept, words, etc.: requiring one to distinguish between fine points, especially if it is difficult to do so; nice; also (generally), difficult to grasp; not easily understood or obvious.
- 9
Senses relating to intangible things.; Giving only a slight impression; elusive, indistinct; also, skilfully restrained or understated.
- The difference between the tones is subtle, but you can hear it if you listen carefully.
- 10
Senses relating to intangible things.; Of an artist, a musician, etc.: having a light touch; sensitive.
syn. subtle · tricky · nice · delicate · knotty
ant. manifest · obvious · simple