sensible

¹sen·si·ble

adj \ˈsen(t)-sə-bəl\

Definition of SENSIBLE

1

: of a kind to be felt or perceived: as a : perceptible to the senses or to reason or understanding <felt a sensible chill> <her distress was sensible from her manner> b archaic : perceptibly large : considerable c : perceptible as real or material : substantial <the sensible world in which we live>

2

a : capable of receiving sensory impressions <sensible to pain> b : receptive to external influences : sensitive <the most sensible reaches of the spirit>

3

a : perceiving through the senses or mind : cognizant <sensible of the increasing heat>; also : convinced by perceived evidence : satisfied <sensible of my error> b : emotionally aware and responsive <we are sensible of your problems> c : conscious

4

: having, containing, or indicative of good sense or reason : rational, reasonable <sensible people> <made a sensible answer>

5

: designed for practical ends (as comfort) rather than for appearance <sensible shoes>

— sen·si·ble·ness noun

— sen·si·bly \-blē\ adverb

Examples of SENSIBLE

1. My teacher gave me some sensible advice.
2. She was sensible enough to stop driving when she got too tired.
3. She wore a sensible coat.

Origin of SENSIBLE

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin sensibilis, from sensus, past participle of sentire to feel

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to SENSIBLE

Synonyms: appreciable, apprehensible, detectable, discernible (also discernable), distinguishable, palpable, perceptible

Antonyms: impalpable, imperceptible, inappreciable, indistinguishable, insensible, undetectable

Related Words: audible, observable, tangible, visible; clear, conspicuous, evident, eye-catching, manifest, noticeable, obvious, plain, ponderable, prominent, striking; apparent, distinct, identifiable, significant, straightforward

Near Antonyms: inaudible, intangible, invisible; inconspicuous, indistinct, unnoticeable, unobtrusive; faint, insignificant, slight, trivial; buried, concealed, covert, disguised, hidden, obscure, shrouded, vague

see all synonyms and antonyms

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See Synonym Discussion at material, perceptible, aware, wise