subtlety

English

/ˈsʌt(ə)lti/

noun
Definitions
  • (uncountable) The quality of being subtle.
  • (countable) An instance of being subtle, a subtle thing, especially a subtle argument or distinction.
  • (countable) An ornate medieval illusion dish or table decoration, especially when made from one thing but crafted to look like another.
  • (uncountable) The quality of being clever in surreptitious or deceitful behaviour; an act or argument that shows this quality.
  • (countable) A trick that creates a false appearance.
  • (uncountable) The property of having a low density or thin consistency.
  • (uncountable) The property of being able to penetrate materials easily.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English sotilte derived from Old French sutilté derived from Latin subtīlitās.

Origin

Latin

subtīlitās

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms