subtle meaning and definition

SUBTLE adjective

Definition of subtle (adjective)

1. difficult to detect or grasp by the mind or analyze
   • "his whole attitude had undergone a subtle change"; "a subtle difference"; "that elusive thing the soul"
   • synonyms: elusive
2. able to make fine distinctions
   • "a subtle mind"
3. working or spreading in a hidden and usually injurious way
   • "glaucoma is an insidious disease"; "a subtle poison"
   • synonyms: insidious, pernicious