Definition

Referring to something that is too faint or dim to be seen without assistance.

Example

The subvisual details of the painting were only visible under special lighting.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed how some stars are just subvisual to the naked eye?

Yeah, I often wonder what we're missing out there in the universe.

Exactly! It’s amazing how much is out there that we can’t see without help.

Right? I think telescopes really open up a whole new world for us.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subvisual → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "visual" (from Latin "visus", meaning sight). The word "subvisual" refers to something that is below the threshold of sight or not visible to the naked eye.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'under' ('sub-') what you can 'see' ('visual') — that's why subvisual means something that cannot be seen.

Visually Confused Words