n. 1. a. The process of perceiving something with the senses: the perception of a faint sound. b. An instance of this: sense perceptions. 2. a. The process or state of being aware of something: the perception of time. b. Insight or knowledge gained by thinking: the perception that inheritance must be coded in DNA. c. The capacity for such insight or knowledge: theories of how to enhance human perception. d. An insight or point of knowledge: The article is full of astute perceptions. 3. An interpretation or impression; an opinion or belief: doctors working to change the public perception of certain diseases. [Middle English percepcioun, from Old French percepcion, from Latin perceptiō, perceptiōn-, from perceptus, past participle of percipere, to perceive; see PERCEIVE.] per·ception·al adj. |
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