perception | pəˈsɛpʃ(ə)n |
noun [mass noun]
1 the ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses: the normal limits to human perception.
• awareness of something through the senses: the perception of pain.
• Psychology & Zoology the neurophysiological processes, including memory, by which an organism becomes aware of and interprets external stimuli.
2 the way in which something is regarded, understood, or interpreted: Hollywood’s perception of the tastes of the American public | [count noun] : we need to challenge many popular perceptions of old age.
• intuitive understanding and insight: ‘He wouldn’t have accepted,’ said my mother with unusual perception.