Definition

Not strong enough to be noticed or to cause a reaction.

Example

The subthreshold stimulus did not elicit any noticeable response from the participants.

Conversation

I read this article about subthreshold stimuli in psychology.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It refers to signals that are too weak to be noticed or cause a reaction.

That sounds interesting! I didn't know there were different levels of perception.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subthreshold → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "threshold" (from Old English "þrescold", meaning the entrance or the point of beginning). The word "subthreshold" refers to a level that is below a certain threshold or limit.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'under' ('sub-') a certain 'entrance' or 'limit' ('threshold') — that's what subthreshold means.

Visually Confused Words