Tactile Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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tactile
[ˈtæktaɪl ]
Definitions
sense of touch
Relating to the sense of touch or the perception of physical sensations; tangible.
Synonyms
haptic, palpable, physical, tangible.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tactile |
Used to describe something related to the sense of touch or things that can be touched. Common in scientific, medical, and sensory contexts.
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| tangible |
Refers to something real and capable of being touched or measured, often used to describe objects, results, or benefits.
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| haptic |
Refers specifically to the technology or study of touch and interaction through touch. Often found in technology, virtual reality, and robotic discussions.
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| palpable |
Usually means something so intense that it feels almost tangible, but often used metaphorically to describe emotions or sensations. Has a more figurative use.
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| physical |
Describes something related to the body, material, or natural world, as opposed to abstract or virtual. Widely used in various contexts like health, fitness, and general descriptions.
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Examples of usage
- The tactile feedback on the smartphone screen makes it easier to type.
- Children learn about the world around them through tactile experiences.
- The artist used a variety of tactile materials in her sculpture.
- The tactile sensitivity of his fingers allowed him to detect even the slightest changes in texture.
- Some people have a preference for tactile learning, where they learn best through hands-on experiences.
sense of touch
The sense of touch; the ability to perceive and recognize textures, shapes, and temperatures through physical contact.
Synonyms
haptic perception, sense of touch, tactility.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tactile |
This word is commonly used to describe things related to the sense of touch, especially when emphasizing the physical sensations. Often found in scientific, artistic, and sensory contexts.
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| sense of touch |
A broad, general term suitable for everyday use, education, and basic explanations about how we experience physical sensations.
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| tactility |
Often used in artistic, design, or material contexts to refer to the quality or state of being tactile; how something feels to the touch.
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| haptic perception |
Used in scientific and technical discussions, especially in psychology, neuroscience, and virtual reality. It emphasizes the active process of exploring and understanding the environment through touch.
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Examples of usage
- His tactile sense was so heightened that he could distinguish between different fabrics blindfolded.
- Some animals rely heavily on their tactile senses to navigate their environment and find food.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Touch plays a critical role in human connection, impacting emotional bonding and communication.
- Research shows that tactile experiences can influence memory and learning, making touch an essential part of education.
Science
- In biology, tactile perception helps animals navigate their environment and find food, particularly in nocturnal creatures.
- Humans have specialized receptors in their skin that allow them to sense pressure, temperature, and texture, increasing our tactile sensitivity.
Art & Design
- Artists often incorporate tactile elements in their works, inviting viewers to experience their creations through touch.
- Textures in design are essential for creating immersive experiences, appealing to our sense of touch and enhancing interaction.
Technology
- Modern smartphones utilize tactile feedback to enhance user interaction, helping users feel clicks and notifications.
- Virtual reality environments are increasingly integrating tactile sensations to create more immersive experiences for users.
Origin of 'tactile'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'tactile' comes from the Latin word 'tactilis', which means 'able to be touched'.
- The root 'tangere' in Latin means 'to touch', showing its deep connection to the sense of touch.
The word 'tactile' comes from the Latin word 'tactilis', which means 'able to be touched'. The concept of touch has always been essential for humans and animals to explore and understand the world around them. The development of tactile technology has revolutionized many industries, from smartphones with touchscreens to virtual reality experiences that incorporate tactile feedback. Understanding the importance of tactile sensations can enhance our interactions with the environment and improve our overall quality of life.