The meaning of SUBTLE is pleasing to the senses in a mild or nuanced way : delicate, elusive. How to use subtle in a sentence. Why is there a 'b' in subtle?

SUBTLE definition: 1. not loud, bright, noticeable, or obvious in any way: 2. small but important: 3. achieved in a…. Learn more.

Something that is subtle is not obvious: a professional food taster might be able to perceive subtle differences of flavor that most people don't notice.

Definition of subtle adjective from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. (often approving) not very obvious or easy to notice. There are subtle differences between the two versions. The …

Dec 11, 2025 · (archaic) Having a delicate or fine substance or texture; hence, exquisite, refined. (archaic) Slender, thin. (archaic) Of a substance: finely powdered; also, of particles of a …

difficult to detect or analyse, often through being delicate or highly refined: a subtle scent showing or making or capable of showing or making fine distinctions of meaning

There are 25 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word subtle, five of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.