subconscious

American  

[suhb-kon-shuhs] / sʌbˈkɒn ʃəs /

adjective

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

   the subconscious self.

2. imperfectly or not wholly conscious.

   subconscious motivations.

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noun

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

subconscious British  

/ sʌbˈkɒnʃəs /

adjective

1. acting or existing without one's awareness

   subconscious motive

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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

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

Etymology

Origin of subconscious

First recorded in 1825–35; sub- + conscious

Example Sentences

"I often think of locations as a subconscious character in the movie," said the 44-year-old Glaser.

From Barron's

"It has physical repercussions and impacts on our subconscious."

From Barron's

I’d seen something, I just needed my conscious brain to catch up with my subconscious.

From Literature

It makes more sense that the feeling of family promised by rock touring life would appeal to Charlie Brown; it often calls to creative dreamers and outcasts with a subconscious need to belong.

From Los Angeles Times

In addition to this spree of the subconscious, the artist offers glimpses of her creative process.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• psyche