imperceptible

adjective

im·​per·​cep·​ti·​ble ˌim-pər-ˈsep-tə-bəl 

: not perceptible by a sense or by the mind : extremely slight, gradual, or subtle

imperceptible differences

imperceptibly

ˌim-pər-ˈsep-tə-blē 

adverb

Synonyms

• impalpable
• inappreciable
• indistinguishable
• insensible

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

These are variations that might be imperceptible to the casual sushi eater but which can send a connoisseur into raptures. —Helen Rosner, The New Yorker, 27 Oct. 2024

These marks are imperceptible to the naked eye but can be detected with digital scanning equipment, including smartphones and machine vision cameras, providing a critical layer of authentication that is widely accessible and cost-effective. —Judy Moon, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2024

As the doors parted and Brittany laid eyes on her man for the first time, an almost imperceptible shadow passed over her face. —Stephanie McNeal, Glamour, 2 Oct. 2024

Subtle errors, camouflaged in labyrinthine webs of code, become imperceptible at the lightning speed of execution. —Dr. Mithu Storoni, TIME, 16 Sep. 2024

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

Kids Definition

imperceptible

adjective

im·​per·​cep·​ti·​ble ˌim-pər-ˈsep-tə-bəl 

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 

adverb