Meaning & Definition of word "Perceive"

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    Perceive

    /pərˈsiːv/

    verb:

    • 1. to become aware of directly through any of the senses, especially sight or hearing.
      • Example: She could perceive the faint sound of music from the other room.
    • 2. to recognize, discern, or comprehend something.
      • Example: He could easily perceive the tension in the room.
    • 3. to interpret or look upon something in a particular way.
      • Example: People may perceive the same event differently based on their experiences.
    • 4. to understand something in a specific way.
      • Example: I perceive your silence as an agreement.

    Etymology

    Middle English: from Old French 'percevoir', from Latin 'percipere', from 'per-' (through) + 'capere' (to seize).

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    perceive as:

    to interpret or regard in a specific way

    perceive through:

    to understand something by means of sensory experience

    to be perceived:

    to be understood or interpreted in a certain way

    Related Words

    perception:

    The ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses.

    perceptive:

    Having or showing sensitive insight.

    Slang Meanings of perceive

    Meaning: Get the vibe

    Example Sentence: I don’t know, but I just get the vibe that he’s not into it.

    Meaning: Pick up on

    Example Sentence: She can really pick up on people's feelings.