subconscious
UK: ˌsʌbˈkɒn.ʃəs | US: ˌsʌbˈkɑːn.ʃəs
adj. operating below the level of conscious awareness
n. the part of the mind containing thoughts, memories, or impulses not fully perceived but influencing behavior
subconscious = sub<below> + conscious<aware>
- sub: From Latin sub- ("under, below"), indicating something beneath or secondary.
- conscious: From Latin conscius ("knowing, aware"), combining con- ("with") + scire ("to know").
Etymology Origin:
The term emerged in the 19th century, blending sub- (a prolific prefix in scientific and psychological terminology) with conscious to describe mental processes hidden from immediate awareness. It reflects the conceptual "layering" of the mind in early psychology, where the subconscious was seen as a foundational layer beneath active thought.
Her subconscious fear of failure often held her back.
Dreams are believed to reveal subconscious desires.
He acted on a subconscious impulse to protect the child.
The therapist helped her explore her subconscious memories.
Advertising targets the subconscious associations of consumers.