| Subliminal | a. [ Pref. sub- + L. limen threshold. ] 1. (Philos.) Existing in the mind, but below the surface or threshold of consciousness; that is, existing as feeling rather than as clear ideas. [ Webster 1913 Suppl. ] 2. having or using an intensity of sensory stimulus insufficient to be perceived consciously, but having an effect on unconscious mental processes; as, subliminal advertising. The existence of such an effect is still not universally accepted. [ PJC ] |
| Sublimity | n.; pl. Sublimities [ L. sublimitas: cf. F. sublimité. ] 1. The quality or state of being sublime (in any sense of the adjective). [ 1913 Webster ] 2. That which is sublime; as, the sublimities of nature. [ 1913 Webster ] Syn. -- Grandeur; magnificence. -- Sublimity, Grandeur. The mental state indicated by these two words is the same, namely, a mingled emotion of astonishment and awe. In speaking of the quality which produces this emotion, we call it grandeur when it springs from what is vast in space, power, etc.; we call it sublimity when it springs from what is elevated far above the ordinary incidents of humanity. An immense plain is grand. The heavens are not only grand, but sublime (as the predominating emotion), from their immense height. Exalted intellect, and especially exalted virtue under severe trials, give us the sense of moral sublimity, as in the case of our Savior in his prayer for his murderers. We do not speak of Satan, when standing by the fiery gulf, with his “unconquerable will and study of revenge, ” as a sublime object; but there is a melancholy grandeur thrown around him, as of an “archangel ruined.” [ 1913 Webster ] |
