perceptive

adjective

per·​cep·​tive pər-ˈsep-tiv 

1

: responsive to sensory stimuli : discerning

a perceptive eye

2

a

: capable of or exhibiting keen perception : observant

a perceptive scholar

b

: characterized by sympathetic understanding or insight

perceptively adverb

perceptiveness noun

perceptivity

(ˌ)pər-ˌsep-ˈti-və-tē 

noun

Synonyms of perceptive

• sensitive
• keen
• quick
• acute

Examples of perceptive in a Sentence

He is a very perceptive young man.

due to their ability to rotate their ears, cats are very perceptive when it comes to pinpointing the source of a sound

Recent Examples on the Web

The wellness experts have been enticed from big hitting destination spas such as Chiva Som in Thailand and Vana in India, and are perceptive and highly experienced, although communications between departments could be better. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 June 2026

Your perceptive nature senses a family need, household issue, or emotional loose end that should be handled before bigger plans move forward. — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 26 June 2026

Erin is deeply empathetic and highly perceptive — two qualities that don’t necessarily serve her well on Beechwood Island. — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 25 June 2026

Everything about Shenzi, Banzai and Ed is giving Gemini energy — Shenzi is sharp, perceptive and strategic; Banzai is reactive and argumentative, while Ed contributes random and unpredictable laughter. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 24 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for perceptive

• deceptive
• receptive
• contraceptive
• nociceptive
• proprioceptive

Kids Definition

perceptive

adjective

per·​cep·​tive pər-ˈsep-tiv 

: capable of or showing a keen ability to observe and understand

Medical Definition

perceptive

adjective

per·​cep·​tive pər-ˈsep-tiv 

: responsive to sensory stimulus

a perceptive eye

perceptively adverb

perceptiveness noun

perceptivity

(ˌ)pər-ˌsep-ˈtiv-ət-ē 

noun

plural perceptivities