Senses relating to tangible things. • Of an action or movement: very delicate or slight, and thus barely noticeable; not obvious; inconspicuous, unintrusive. • Having a delicate or fine substance or texture; hence, exquisite, refined. • Slender, thin. • Of a substance: finely powdered; also, of particles of a substance: very fine or small. • Of weight: after the tare (“weight of an empty container”) has been subtracted; net. • Of a substance, especially a gas or liquid: of low density or thin consistency; rarefied, tenuous; hence, tending to spread everywhere due to this quality. • Synonym of subtile (“of a ship: narrow, slender”). • Senses relating to intangible things. • Of an argument or concept, words, etc.: requiring one to distinguish between fine points, especially if it is difficult to do so; nice; also (generally), difficult to grasp; not easily understood or obvious. • Giving only a slight impression; elusive, indistinct; also, skilfully restrained or understated. • Of an artist, a musician, etc.: having a light touch; sensitive. • Of a person: sensitive to the feelings of others; discreet, tactful. • Of a person, their intellect or mind, etc.: discerning, perceptive, shrewd, wise. • Acting (especially causing harm) in a stealthy, often gradual, manner; insidious. • Of a person or their fingers or hands, their ability, etc.: dexterous, skilful. • Of a person or animal, or of an action or words: clever or skilful in a crafty or devious way; cunning, sly, wily. • Of ground used for bowling: not smooth; uneven. • Of an object: cleverly contrived or made; also, of a plan, etc.: cleverly contrived or carried out.