Definition

Referring to something that is above the level of awareness or consciousness, often used to describe stimuli that can be perceived but not consciously recognized.

Example

The supraliminal messages in the advertisement were designed to influence viewers without them realizing it.

Conversation

Have you heard about supraliminal messaging in ads?

Yeah, I read that it targets our subconscious mind without us realizing it.

Exactly! It's interesting how it can influence our choices so subtly.

I know, right? It makes you wonder how often we're affected by things like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Supraliminal is formed from "supra-" (meaning above or beyond) and "liminal" (from Latin "limen", meaning threshold). The word refers to stimuli that are above the threshold of conscious perception, hence, beyond the limit of awareness.

Memory Tip

Think of 'supra-' meaning 'above' and 'liminal' relating to a 'threshold' — this helps you remember that 'supraliminal' refers to things that are above the level of conscious awareness.

Visually Confused Words