sensibility
noun
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The meanings of sensibility run the gamut from mere sensation to excessive sentimentality. In between is a capacity for delicate appreciation, a sense often pluralized. In Jane Austen's books, sensibility is mostly an admirable quality she attributes to, or finds lacking in, her characters: "He had ... a sensibility to what was amiable and lovely" (of Mr. Elliot in Persuasion). In Sense and Sensibility, however, Austen starts out by ascribing to Marianne sensibleness, on the one hand, but an "excess of sensibility" on the other: "Her sorrows, her joys, could have no moderation ... she was everything but prudent."
Examples of sensibility in a Sentence
Beryl Love, The Enquirer, 2 Aug. 2025
The show’s humor was grounded in a distinctly regional sensibility.
—Rachel Monroe, New Yorker, 2 Aug. 2025
That its throwback sensibility mostly comes off as classic rather than hoary is a testament to the competence of the seasoned cast and crew, as well as to Morgan’s confident lead turn.
—Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 31 July 2025
This pop sensibility was something shared in common with HYDE’s music, which is aggressive but also has catchy, beautiful melodies.
—Billboard Japan, Billboard, 29 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for sensibility
Cite this Entry
“Sensibility.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensibility. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.
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sensibility
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