Meaning & use

palpable

adjective·Advanced

So intense or obvious that it can almost be touched, felt, or physically sensed.

See it in a sentence

The tension in the courtroom was palpable as the jury returned with its verdict.

A palpable sense of relief spread through the crowd when the rescued hikers appeared.

A note on using this word

Palpable most often describes strong emotions or atmospheres rather than physical objects, despite its root meaning able to be touched.

Words with a similar meaning

tangiblenoticeableobvious

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

imperceptiblesubtle

Make it your own

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