subtlety

noun

sub·​tle·​ty ˈsə-tᵊl-tē How to pronounce subtlety (audio)
plural subtleties
1
: the quality or state of being subtle
2
: something subtle

Examples of subtlety in a Sentence

The pianist performed with subtlety and passion. we appreciated the subtlety with which our host indicated that it was time to leave: he volunteered to pack us a little lunch for the road
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
With nuance and subtlety, with grace and deep feeling, Jayson Greene writes about the most ancient of human stories of love and grief, alongside the pressing, hypermodern concerns of the digital age, like artificial intelligence. Gabrielle Bellot, Literary Hub, 17 June 2025 However, working out the best response means delving into the subtleties of how people communicate with one another, such as determining when a direct response is better than a more hedged one. ArsTechnica, 12 June 2025 Its eight feathers represent the eight original NWSL teams, including the Boston Breakers, with more specific symbolism and subtleties throughout. Michael Loré, Forbes.com, 9 June 2025 Her short films are full of soft moments exploring Yoruba spirituality, Nigerian urban planning, the hills of Botswana, and other locations with subtlety and respect. Keyaira Boone, Essence, 30 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for subtlety

Word History

Etymology

Middle English sotilte, subtilte, from Anglo-French sotilté, from Latin subtilitat-, subtilitas, from subtilis

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of subtlety was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Subtlety.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subtlety. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

subtlety

noun
sub·​tle·​ty ˈsət-ᵊl-tē How to pronounce subtlety (audio)
plural subtleties
1
: the quality or state of being subtle
2
: something subtle

More from Merriam-Webster on subtlety

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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