imperceptible

adjective

im·​per·​cep·​ti·​ble ˌim-pər-ˈsep-tə-bəl How to pronounce imperceptible (audio)
Synonyms of imperceptible
: not perceptible by a sense or by the mind : extremely slight, gradual, or subtle
imperceptible differences
imperceptibly
ˌim-pər-ˈsep-tə-blē How to pronounce imperceptible (audio)
adverb

Synonyms of imperceptible

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Examples of imperceptible in a Sentence

These changes will be imperceptible to most people. a slight difference in hue between the two glasses that's imperceptible unless they're placed side by side
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
My dream foundation is one that conceals blemishes but is so imperceptible that people will ask me about my skin care routine. — Kaelin Dodge, InStyle, 16 June 2026 Of course, part of the challenge was the outward invisibility of all the changes—to anyone who had not been at sea, my new life was imperceptible. — Literary Hub, 18 May 2026 At first, the change is imperceptible but Nick notices that his sleepy village seems more vibrant, more populated with people. — Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026 Because there are no limits on call time, the transition from customer service to therapy was often imperceptible. — Julian Lucas, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for imperceptible

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Middle French, from Medieval Latin imperceptibilis, from Latin in- + Late Latin perceptibilis perceptible

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of imperceptible was in the 15th century

Rhymes for imperceptible

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Browse Nearby Words

imperceptibility
imperceptible
imperceptive
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Cite this Entry

“Imperceptible.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/imperceptible. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

imperceptible

adjective
im·​per·​cep·​ti·​ble ˌim-pər-ˈsep-tə-bəl How to pronounce imperceptible (audio)
1
: not noticeable : not perceptible by a sense or by the mind
one whose beauty was imperceptible to others
2
: hardly noticeable : very small or gradual
an imperceptible smile
imperceptibly
-blē How to pronounce imperceptible (audio)
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on imperceptible

Nglish: Translation of imperceptible for Spanish Speakers

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