adj. (subtler, subtlest)
1. evasive or mysterious; hard to grasp (subtle charm; a subtle distinction).
2 (of scent, colour, etc.) faint, delicate, elusive (subtle perfume).
3 a capable of making fine distinctions; perceptive; acute (subtle intellect; subtle senses). b ingenious; elaborate; clever (a subtle device).
4 archaic crafty, cunning.
Derivatives:
subtleness n. subtly adv.
Etymology: ME f. OF sotil f. L subtilis