Palpable

Palpable is an adjective meaning capable of being touched or felt physically, or easily perceived by the senses. It can describe tangible sensations, such as a lump or a pulse, as well as more abstract impressions that feel obvious or imminent. The term derives from Latin palpabilis, from palpare, to touch or stroke.

In medical contexts, palpable refers to structures or conditions that can be detected by touch during a physical examination. A palpable mass is a lump that the examiner can feel, and a palpable pulse is one that can be felt by palpation. Palpable lymph nodes, organs, or edema indicate that the body part can be detected through touch. Palpation, the technique of using hands to examine the body, is a standard component of clinical assessment.

Beyond anatomy and medicine, palpable is often used metaphorically to describe atmospheres, emotions, or impressions that seem almost tangible. For example, a palpable sense of relief or a palpable tension in a room suggests something strongly evident to those present. In such figurative use, palpable emphasizes clarity or intensity of perception rather than physical touch.

Related terms include palpate (to examine by touch) and palpation (the act or process of palpating). The word often appears in clinical notes, descriptive writing, and evaluative language to convey detectable or strongly felt presence.