Palpable

Adjective

Definition: Able to be touched or felt; tangible.

Definition: Easily perceptible; noticeable.

Synonyms: Tangible, Perceptible, Noticeable, Evident

Antonyms: Intangible, Imperceptible, Invisible, Elusive

Examples:
  • The tension in the room was palpable.
  • The excitement in the air was palpable as the team scored the winning goal.
Mnemonics:
  • Palpable sounds similar to "palpate," which means to examine by touch. So, something palpable can be felt or touched.

Etymology:

Origin:

Borrowed from Late Latin 'palpabilis', from Latin 'palpare' meaning "to touch softly, stroke".

Historical Usage:

The word "palpable" has been in use since the late 14th century, primarily originating from Latin and French.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Palpable tension"

Explanation:

Refers to a strong feeling of tension or uneasiness that is easily noticeable or felt.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Mistaking "palpable" for a synonym of "obvious."

Explanation:

While "palpable" can mean easily perceptible or noticeable, it specifically emphasizes the sense of touch or physical experience, making it more precise than the general term "obvious."

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