adj. & n.
--adj.
1. (often foll. by to) very open to or acutely affected by external stimuli or mental impressions; having sensibility.
2 (of a person) easily offended or emotionally hurt.
3 (often foll. by to) (of an instrument etc.) responsive to or recording slight changes.
4 (often foll. by to) a (of photographic materials) prepared so as to respond (esp. rapidly) to the action of light. b (of any material) readily affected by or responsive to external action.
5 (of a topic etc.) subject to restriction of discussion to prevent embarrassment, ensure security, etc.
6 (of a market) liable to quick changes of price.
--n. a person who is sensitive (esp. to supposed occult influences).
Phrases and idioms:
sensitive plant
1. a plant whose leaves curve downwards and leaflets fold together when touched, esp. mimosa.
2 a sensitive person.
Derivatives:
sensitively adv. sensitiveness n.
Etymology: ME, sensory, f. OF sensitif -ive or med.L sensitivus, irreg. f. L sentire sens- feel