impalpable

im·pal·pa·ble

adj \(ˌ)im-ˈpal-pə-bəl\

Definition of IMPALPABLE

1

a : incapable of being felt by touch : intangible <the impalpable aura of power that emanated from him — Osbert Sitwell> b : so finely divided that no grains or grit can be felt <rock worn to an impalpable powder>

2

: not readily discerned by the mind <impalpable evils>

— im·pal·pa·bil·i·ty \-ˌpal-pə-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun

— im·pal·pa·bly \-ˈpal-pə-blē\ adverb

Examples of IMPALPABLE

1. <the rich colors used in the wall coverings and furniture give the room an impalpable warmth>
2. <any difference between the two sound systems is impalpable to all but the most discerning audiophiles>

First Known Use of IMPALPABLE

1509

Related to IMPALPABLE

Synonyms: intangible

Antonyms: palpable, tactile, tangible, touchable

Related Words: bodiless, immaterial, incorporeal, insubstantial, unsubstantial; ethereal, spiritual, unreal

Near Antonyms: corporeal, physical; embodied, material, real, solid, substantial

see all synonyms and antonyms

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