The meaning of SUBTLE is pleasing to the senses in a mild or nuanced way : delicate, elusive. How to use subtle in a sentence. Why is there a 'b' in subtle?

SUBTLE definition: thin, tenuous, or rarefied, as a fluid or an odor. See examples of subtle used in a sentence.

SUBTLE definition: 1. not loud, bright, noticeable, or obvious in any way: 2. small but important: 3. achieved in a…. Learn more.

Definition of subtle adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Jan 2, 2026 · subtle (third-person singular simple present subtles, present participle subtling, simple past and past participle subtled) (transitive) (chiefly US) To make (something) subtle (“ giving only a slight …

Something that is subtle is not immediately obvious or noticeable. ...the slow and subtle changes that take place in all living things.

difficult to detect or analyse, often through being delicate or highly refined: a subtle scent showing or making or capable of showing or making fine distinctions of meaning

There are 25 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word subtle, five of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

2. difficult to detect or analyse, often through being delicate or highly refined: a subtle scent. 5. delicate or faint: a subtle shade. 6. cunning or wily: a subtle rogue. 7. operating or executed in secret: a …

a. So slight as to be difficult to detect or describe; elusive: a subtle smile. b. Difficult to understand; abstruse: an argument whose subtle point was lost on her opponent. 2. Able to make fine …