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Definition of palpable

palpable

/ˈpæl.pə.bəl/
pal · pa · ble
Adverb:palpably
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palpable Lexical Profile

palpable Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

So intense, obvious, or unmistakable as to seem almost tangible or physically felt.

Example

"A palpable sense of relief swept through the auditorium when the positive results were announced."

2

Capable of being touched or felt physically, especially during a medical examination.

Example

"During the routine checkup, the physician checked whether the patient's lymph nodes were palpable."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for palpable
Antonyms
View all antonyms for palpable

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'palpable' (so intense as to seem tangible, or able to be touched) with 'palatable' (pleasant to taste or acceptable to the mind).

• Rhymes for palpable

• Nearby Words

palomino
palouse
palouse falls
palpable
palpably
palpitate
palpitation

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Late Latin 'palpabilis' ('that may be touched or felt'), derived from the Latin verb 'palpare' ('to touch softly, stroke, or pat').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Palpable. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/palpable
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