subtlety

noun

sub·tle·ty ˈsə-tᵊl-tē

plural subtleties

Synonyms of subtlety

: the quality or state of being subtle

: 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 smallest detail can affect the toy’s value, from the stuffing — the initial batch was reportedly made with PVC pellets, while later versions were made with polyethylene pellets — to subtleties in the eyes, nose or mouth. — Nicole Briese, PEOPLE, 31 Aug. 2026 They’re just executed here with all the subtlety of a sledgehammer. — Katie Walsh, Los Angeles Times, 21 Aug. 2026 That the film mostly pulls this off is testament to its formal precision and to a central pairing of actors, in Lavernhe and Lottin, who manage to find subtlety where broad strokes would seem to be called for. — Caspar Salmon, Variety, 21 Aug. 2026 In a town where every detail is scrutinized, any rebellion requires subtlety. — Kathryn O’Shea-Evans, Robb Report, 16 Aug. 2026 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

See more words from the same century

Browse Nearby Words

subtle

subtlety

subtly

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Subtlety.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subtlety. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

subtlety

noun

sub·tle·ty ˈsət-ᵊl-tē

plural subtleties

: the quality or state of being subtle

: something subtle

subtlety

noun

Synonyms of subtlety

Examples of subtlety in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

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