Difference between revisions of "Subtle"
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− | [[File:lighterstill.jpg]] | + | [[File:lighterstill.jpg]][[File:Subtlehues.jpg|right|frame]] |
==Origin== | ==Origin== | ||
− | 1250–1300; | + | 1250–1300; [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=English#ca._1100-1500_.09THE_MIDDLE_ENGLISH_PERIOD Middle English] sotil < Old French < [[Latin]] subtīlis subtile (b of mod. sp. < L) |
==Definitions== | ==Definitions== | ||
# thin, tenuous, or rarefied, as a fluid or an odor. | # thin, tenuous, or rarefied, as a fluid or an odor. |
Revision as of 19:15, 8 December 2009
Origin
1250–1300; Middle English sotil < Old French < Latin subtīlis subtile (b of mod. sp. < L)
Definitions
- thin, tenuous, or rarefied, as a fluid or an odor.
- fine or delicate in meaning or intent; difficult to perceive or understand: subtle irony.
- delicate or faint and mysterious: a subtle smile.
- requiring mental acuteness, penetration, or discernment: a subtle philosophy.
- characterized by mental acuteness or penetration: a subtle understanding.
- cunning, wily, or crafty: a subtle liar.
- insidious in operation: subtle poison.
- skillful, clever, or ingenious: a subtle painter.