First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1feel
verb \ˈfēl\
: to be aware of (something that affects you physically, such as pain, heat, or an object touching your body)
: to touch (something) with your fingers to see what it is like
: to find (something) by touching with your fingers
felt \ˈfelt\ feel·ing
Full Definition of FEEL
transitive verb
1
a : to handle or touch in order to examine, test, or explore some quality b : to perceive by a physical sensation coming from discrete end organs (as of the skin or muscles)
2
a : to undergo passive experience of b : to have one's sensibilities markedly affected by
3
: to ascertain by cautious trial —usually used with out
intransitive verb
1
a : to receive or be able to receive a tactile sensation b : to search for something by using the sense of touch
2
a : to be conscious of an inward impression, state of mind, or physical condition b : to have a marked sentiment or opinion <feels strongly about it>
3
: seem <it feels like spring today>
4
: to have sympathy or pity <I feel for you>
— feel like
: to have an inclination for <feel like a walk?>
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Origin of FEEL
Middle English felen, from Old English fēlan; akin to Old High German fuolen to feel, Latin palpare to caress
2feel
noun
: the quality of a thing that is experienced by touching it
: a particular quality
: an understanding of something
Full Definition of FEEL
2
: the sense of touch
3
a : the quality of a thing as imparted through or as if through touch b : typical or peculiar quality or atmosphere; also : an awareness of such a quality or atmosphere
4
: intuitive knowledge or ability
See feel defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of FEEL
13th century
Other Psychology Terms
FEEL[1] Defined for Kids
1feel
verb \ˈfēl\
felt \ˈfelt\feel·ing
Definition of FEEL for Kids
1
: to be aware of through physical contact <feel cold>
2
: to examine or search for by touching <The doctor felt for broken bones.>
3
: to be conscious of <He felt a fear of the dark.>
4
: to seem especially to the touch <This cloth feels like silk.>
5
: to sense a physical, mental, or emotional state <felt sick> <felt confused and angry>
6
: to have sympathy <I feel for you.>
2feel
noun
Definition of FEEL for Kids
2
: the quality of something as learned through or as if through touch <The sweater had a scratchy feel to it.>
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