perceive

/pəˈsiːv/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: perceives · perceiving

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To become aware of, through the physical senses, to see; to understand.

Verb

Examples

Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To interpret something in a particular way.

Verb

Examples

John was perceived to be a coward by his comrades

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “perceive” mean?

To become aware of, through the physical senses, to see; to understand.

Is “perceive” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.