subconscious

[suhb-kon-shuhs]

adjective

1. existing or operating in the mind beneath or beyond consciousness.

   the subconscious self.

2. imperfectly or not wholly conscious.

   subconscious motivations.

noun

1. the totality of mental processes of which the individual is not aware; unreportable mental activities.

subconscious

/ sʌbˈkɒnʃəs /

adjective

1. acting or existing without one's awareness

   subconscious motive

noun

1. psychoanal that part of the mind which is on the fringe of consciousness and contains material of which it is possible to become aware by redirecting attention Compare preconscious unconscious

Other Word Forms

• subconsciously adverb
• subconsciousness noun
• nonsubconscious adjective
• nonsubconsciousness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of subconscious¹

First recorded in 1825–35; sub- + conscious

Example Sentences

My science teacher claimed that dreams were manifestations of the subconscious.

Read more on Literature

“This subconscious comes to life because it’s not constrained,” Equihua says.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

"I wouldn't post him to prevent someone accidentally putting their jealousy, even if it's unintentional and subconscious, as evil eye onto my relationship," says Athera.

Read more on BBC

I may not be saying the right things all the time, but I’m at least going to be tapping into that little voice in your subconscious that’s like, “I kind of feel that way too.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Was it a subconscious belief that the game had already been won when the Lions went 24-5 ahead early in the second half?

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• psyche