sensitivity

noun

sen·​si·​tiv·​i·​ty ˌsen(t)-sə-ˈti-və-tē How to pronounce sensitivity (audio)
plural sensitivities
: the quality or state of being sensitive: such as
a
: the capacity of an organism or sense organ to respond to stimulation : irritability
b
: the quality or state of being hypersensitive
c
: the degree to which a radio receiving set responds to incoming waves
d
: the capacity of being easily hurt
e
: awareness of the needs and emotions of others
a book written with just the right mix of empathy and sensitivityL. C. Brown

Did you know?

Do you have acuity or sensitivity?

Acuity is nearly synonymous with at least one sense of sensitivity, yet, as is so often the case with closely-related words, there are subtle differences worth observing before you substitute one of these words for the other. Acuity does refer to a form of sensitivity, but it is most often applied to the perceptual senses (as in “visual acuity” or “auditory acuity”). It is also frequently used in reference to the intellect (as in “mental acuity”). Sensitivity has a broader range of meanings than acuity does, including “the capacity of being easily hurt.” It may be used of inanimate objects such as radios (“the sensitivity of the instruments was carefully calibrated”), a context in which acuity is unusual.

Examples of sensitivity in a Sentence

I was surprised by her extreme sensitivity about even the smallest suggestions that we made. This is a matter of great political sensitivity. He handled the situation with great sensitivity. Her decision shows a lack of sensitivity. I would have appreciated a little more sensitivity from you.
Recent Examples on the Web Some people lose their libido or ability to become aroused, while others have problems with genital sensitivity, genital lubrication, reaching orgasm or having satisfying orgasms, or ejaculation. Kristen Rogers, CNN, 21 Mar. 2024 When teens and tweens are just starting to develop breast buds or feel some sensitivity in their nipples, a training bra is appropriate. Cheryl Fenton, Parents, 20 Mar. 2024 Ten percent had symptoms of migraines, which can include throbbing or pulsing pain, nausea or sensitivity to light. Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 19 Mar. 2024 After years of arguing that the intention behind offensive words matters less than their effects, leftists should be equipped to bring a bit of subtlety and sensitivity to discussions of Jews and Zionism. Michelle Goldberg, The Mercury News, 14 Mar. 2024 Other effects include permanent changes in color perception, distortion of vision, light sensitivity, and headaches. George Dvorsky / Gizmodo, Quartz, 13 Mar. 2024 An egg hunt for children with sensory sensitivities or adaptive needs is from 11 to 11:45 a.m. Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Mar. 2024 Incorporating more Haredim, a conservative population, into a modern military includes its own set of challenges, like addressing sensitivities involving men serving alongside women. Natan Odenheimer, New York Times, 4 Mar. 2024 In One Love, Rastafari beliefs are shown with beauty and sensitivity, offering audiences a deeper perspective and challenging past portrayals thatmay have been inaccurate or simply superficial. Melissa Noel, Essence, 9 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'sensitivity.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1773, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sensitivity was in 1773

Dictionary Entries Near sensitivity

Cite this Entry

“Sensitivity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensitivity. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

sensitivity

noun
sen·​si·​tiv·​i·​ty ˌsen(t)-sə-ˈtiv-ət-ē How to pronounce sensitivity (audio)
plural sensitivities
: the quality or state of being sensitive

Medical Definition

sensitivity

noun
sen·​si·​tiv·​i·​ty ˌsen(t)-sə-ˈtiv-ət-ē How to pronounce sensitivity (audio)
plural sensitivities
: the quality or state of being sensitive: as
a
: the capacity of an organism or sense organ to respond to stimulation : irritability
b
: the quality or state of being hypersensitive

More from Merriam-Webster on sensitivity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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