sensitivity

noun

sen·​si·​tiv·​i·​ty ˌsen(t)-sə-ˈti-və-tē 

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 sensitivity

—L. 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.

Synonyms

• acuity
• acuteness
• delicacy
• keenness
• perceptiveness
• perceptivity
• sensitiveness
• sharpness

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

Symptoms include headaches, muscle and joint pain, chills, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light. —Geraldine Castro, WIRED, 20 Dec. 2024

Instead, its vivid, expressive prose also explores how aesthetic beauty can cover stomach-churning abuse, while Lin’s rich literary allusions reveal her sensitivity to language and her critical interest in developing a Taiwanese cultural heritage. —The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 20 Dec. 2024

Jenkins puts all this across with sensitivity and what feels like a gentle confidence. —Tom Gliatto, People.com, 20 Dec. 2024

Plus, blue light glasses can help reduce symptoms of eye strain, decrease dry eyes and even help with light sensitivity. —Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 17 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1773, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing sensitivity

• multiple chemical sensitivity

Kids Definition

sensitivity

noun

sen·​si·​tiv·​i·​ty ˌsen(t)-sə-ˈtiv-ət-ē 

plural sensitivities

: the quality or state of being sensitive

Medical Definition

sensitivity

noun

sen·​si·​tiv·​i·​ty ˌsen(t)-sə-ˈtiv-ət-ē 

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