Definition

Something that is very difficult or impossible to notice or perceive because it is so small or subtle.

Example

The changes in the painting were imperceptible to most viewers.

Conversation

Did you notice that imperceptible change in the room's temperature?

Yeah, I felt it too, but it was so slight I almost missed it.

It's funny how some changes can be so imperceptible yet still affect us.

I know, right? Sometimes the smallest things make the biggest difference.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Imperceptible → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "perceptibilis" (from Latin, meaning able to be perceived). The word describes something that cannot be perceived or is not noticeable.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being able to be 'noticed' ('perceptibilis') — that's why imperceptible means something that cannot be noticed.

Visually Confused Words