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

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

From BBC

Looking back, Williamson said, “I was like, oh, yeah, this must be my subconscious telling me that a career in fishing will kill me.”

From Los Angeles Times

We do this in so many subconscious ways — selling ourselves short in terms of accomplishments or competence.

From Los Angeles Times

“I am sure that it worked its way into my subconscious,” Reid says.

From Los Angeles Times

The mini-album reflected the members’ growth and maturity as artists as they took fans on an introspective and vulnerable journey into their subconscious.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• psyche