ˌsen(t)səˈtivəd.ē, -vətē, -i noun
( -es )
Etymology: sensitive (I) + -ity
: the quality or state of being sensitive: as
a. : the rate of displacement of the indicating element with respect to change of the measured quantity — chiefly in technical use
a galvanometer of extreme sensitivity
b.
(1) : the capacity of an organism or of a sense organ to respond to stimulation : irritability ; also : the degree of such responsiveness measured inversely by the weakest stimulus that awakens sensation or other response
(2) : the capacity of a person to respond emotionally to changes in his interpersonal or social relationships ; also : excessive capacity to respond thus
c. : abnormal responsiveness (as to an allergen or parasite) : hypersensitivity
d. : the degree to which a radio receiving set responds to incoming waves ; especially : the quotient of the power or other function of output of the set divided by the power or other function of its input