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 from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. (often approving) not very obvious or easy to notice. There are subtle differences between the two versions. The …

Jan 2, 2026 · (archaic) Having a delicate or fine substance or texture; hence, exquisite, refined. (archaic) Slender, thin. (archaic) Of a substance: finely powdered; also, of particles of a …

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

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 …

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.

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 …