sensitive — quick to detect or respond to slight changes, signals, or influences
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: quick to detect or respond to slight changes, signals, or influences
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈsensətɪv/
Example Sentences
- My phone is so sensitive that it unlocks when I just think about touching it.
- She's sensitive about her cooking, so I always say it's delicious even when it tastes like cardboard.
- The smoke detector is very sensitive to burning toast.
sensitive
ADJECTIVE[/ˈsensətɪv/]
quick to detect or respond to slight changes, signals, or influences
The smoke detector was so sensitive that it reacted to a little steam from the kitchen.
The laboratory instrument was sensitive enough to detect a single tiny particle. (SENSITIVE = SENSE + ACTIVE)
The sensitive alarm responded immediately and protected the building from danger.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Derived from 14th-century Latin, the word originates from 'sensus' meaning 'to perceive or feel'. The term evolved to describe the quality of being acutely responsive to stimuli, reflecting how Roman physicians would carefully detect subtle changes in patients' vital signs.
Breakdown
sensus (to feel, perceive) + -itive (suffix denoting quality or capacity). The suffix -itive transforms the Latin root into an adjective indicating the capacity or tendency to sense or respond to stimuli.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My phone is so sensitive that it unlocks when I just think about touching it.”
“She's sensitive about her cooking, so I always say it's delicious even when it tastes like cardboard.”
“The smoke detector is very sensitive to burning toast.”
“This is a sensitive topic that requires careful discussion.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.