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perception

noun
per·​cep·​tion | \ pər-ˈsep-shən How to pronounce perception (audio) \

Definition of perception

1a : a result of perceiving : observation
b : a mental image : concept
2 obsolete : consciousness
3a : awareness of the elements of environment through physical sensation color perception
b : physical sensation interpreted in the light of experience
4a : quick, acute, and intuitive cognition : appreciation
b : a capacity for comprehension
Other Words from perception Synonyms Choose the Right Synonym More Example Sentences Learn More about perception

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Other Words from perception

perceptional \ pər-​ˈsep-​shnəl How to pronounce perceptional (audio) , -​shə-​nᵊl \ adjective

Choose the Right Synonym for perception

discernment, discrimination, perception, penetration, insight, acumen mean a power to see what is not evident to the average mind. discernment stresses accuracy (as in reading character or motives or appreciating art). the discernment to know true friends discrimination stresses the power to distinguish and select what is true or appropriate or excellent. the discrimination that develops through listening to a lot of great music perception implies quick and often sympathetic discernment (as of shades of feeling). a novelist of keen perception into human motives penetration implies a searching mind that goes beyond what is obvious or superficial. lacks the penetration to see the scorn beneath their friendly smiles insight suggests depth of discernment coupled with understanding sympathy. a documentary providing insight into the plight of the homeless acumen implies characteristic penetration combined with keen practical judgment. a director of reliable box-office acumen

Examples of perception in a Sentence

It is ironic that the impact of smoking on nonsmokers, rather than on smokers themselves, is what finally transformed the regulation and cultural perception of the cigarette. — Allan M. Brandt, The Cigarette Century, 2007 Some drugs cause blurred vision and changes in color perception, or increased tears. — Sallie Tisdale, Harper's, June 2007 The urge of these acolytes is not dramatic but mercantile—to traduce all personal history, to subvert all perception or insight, into gain, or the hope of gain. — David Mamet, Jafsie and John Henry Essays, 1999 Everything is research for the sake of erudition. No one is taught to value himself for nice perception and cultivated taste. — Robert Frost, letter, 2 Jan. 1915 a writer of considerable perception, she remembers how it feels to be confused and insecure a growing perception of the enormity of the problem
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Recent Examples on the Web

 Las Vegas was chosen to provide a high number of rides to the public and be able to understand how public perception changed before riding and after riding the vehicle. — Erin Baldassari, The Mercury News, "Why America’s auto club is helping usher drivers out of existence," 14 Aug. 2019 The nations hosting significant disinformation capabilities typically first saw them active in seeking to manipulate domestic audiences, shaping public perceptions in line with regime propaganda. — Anchorage Daily News, "It’s not just the Russians anymore as Iranians and others turn up disinformation efforts ahead of 2020 vote," 26 July 2019 While government officials might see the project as desperately needed affordable housing, public perception can be a diffe,rent story. — San Diego Union-Tribune, "Proposed San Diego complex would have separate building for low-income renters," 23 July 2019 Bad news for the early public perception of Year 1 under coach Vic Fangio. — Joe Nguyen, The Denver Post, "Raekwon Davis to Broncos? Albert Breer NFL mock draft sends Alabama defensive lineman to Denver.," 12 July 2019 Hong Kong social media and message boards, such as lihkg.com, have been plastered with reminders from protest participants to be sensitive to wider public perceptions of their actions. — Kevin Yam, Quartz, "Why Hong Kong’s protests prove it deserves to be a global financial hub," 10 July 2019 The sound bite reinforced the public perception of him as having a tepid passion for the game. — Connor Letourneau, SFChronicle.com, "Why Willie Cauley-Stein took less money to sign with Warriors," 9 July 2019 Shifting the perception that the program has fallen behind is an immediate priority. — Cameron Teague Robinson, The Courier-Journal, "Josh Minkins Jr. symbolizes Louisville football's localized recruiting approach," 2 July 2019 In covering these new scientific developments, the press had not only shaped the perceptions of the curious but suggested solutions that were actively sought out by the desperate. — Nara B. Milanich, Time, "Paternity Testing Had a Long History Before Today’s DNA Kits. The Science Hasn’t Always Matched the Hype," 10 June 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'perception.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of perception

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

History and Etymology for perception

Latin perception-, perceptio act of perceiving, from percipere — see perceive

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More Definitions for perception

perception

noun
How to pronounce perception (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of perception

: the way you think about or understand someone or something
somewhat formal : the ability to understand or notice something easily
somewhat formal : the way that you notice or understand something using one of your senses

See the full definition for perception in the English Language Learners Dictionary

perception

noun
per·​cep·​tion | \ pər-ˈsep-shən How to pronounce perception (audio) \

Kids Definition of perception

1 : a judgment resulting from awareness or understanding Visiting the beautiful park changed her perception of the city.
2 : the ability to understand (as meanings and ideas) He's a child of remarkable perception.
3 : understanding or awareness gained through the use of the senses depth perception

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