verb
perceive
per-SEEV/pərˈsiːv/
To become aware of something through the senses.
The woman perceives the nearby bird's song and turns toward it.
Etymology
The pieces convey “taking entirely.” Latin extended this image of seizing something to grasping it with the mind, leading to the English sense of becoming aware through thought or sensory experience.
In context
I heard a noise just over my head like the Clapping of wings and then began to perceive the woeful condition I was in
More examples
- Dogs can perceive sounds that humans cannot hear.
- I perceived a faint smell of smoke near the kitchen.
- She perceives a slight change in temperature as the wind shifts.
Forms
perceive · perceives · perceived · perceiving
perception noun — Awareness of something gained through the senses.
perceptible adjective — Able to be noticed through the senses.