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.
The script sounds like it was written with underlines for emphasis and no subtlety. Murtada Elfadl, Variety, 8 Mar. 2025 In an era of rampant method dressing, Moore and her longtime stylist Brad Goreski ran a masterclass in subtlety. Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 1 Mar. 2025 The resort’s exceptional staff anticipates guests’ needs with subtlety and grace, maintaining a nearly 5:1 staff-to-guest ratio that ensures no detail goes unnoticed. Ashlee Marie Preston, Forbes, 24 Feb. 2025 Durrett would do well to ratchet up the sinister vibes just a notch or two; subtlety has no place in soap opera. Kristen Baldwin, EW.com, 24 Feb. 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 24 Mar. 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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