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

Something that is subtle is not obvious: a professional food taster might be able to perceive subtle differences of flavor that most people don't notice.

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

A subtle person cleverly uses indirect methods to achieve something. I even began to exploit him in subtle ways.

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

Jan 2, 2026 · Adjective subtle (comparative subtler or more subtle, superlative subtlest or most subtle) Senses relating to tangible things. Of an action or movement: very delicate or slight, and thus barely …

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 …

subtle definition: barely noticeable or indistinct. Check meanings, examples, usage tips, pronunciation, domains, and related words. Discover expressions like "subtle cues", "subtle as a sledgehammer".

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.