feel
8 synonyms and 1 antonyms for feel, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To become aware of something through the sense of touch.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use feel
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English fēlan, "to feel," related to Dutch voelen and German fühlen.
Full origin of feel →Frequently asked questions
What does “feel” mean?
The word “feel” means to become aware of something through the sense of touch. In plain terms, to sense through touch, to experience an emotion, or to have an opinion about something.
How do you pronounce “feel”?
“Feel” is pronounced feel (/fil/ in IPA).
How do you use “feel” in a sentence?
Here is “feel” used in a sentence: “I feel nervous about the interview tomorrow.”
What is another word for “feel”?
Words with a similar meaning to “feel” include grope, handle and touch.
What is the opposite of “feel”?
The opposite of “feel” — its antonyms — is misfeel.
What part of speech is “feel”?
Depending on how it is used, “feel” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “feel” come from?
The word “feel” comes from Old English. From Old English fēlan, "to feel," related to Dutch voelen and German fühlen.
Is “feel” a common word?
“Feel” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
What is the difference between feel and touch?
To touch is the physical act of making contact with something, usually on purpose. To feel is to become aware of that contact through the sense of touch — the sensation it produces. You can touch something without paying attention, but feeling involves perceiving texture, temperature, or pressure. Touch is the action; feeling is the awareness.
Can 'feel' refer to emotions as well as touch?
Yes. Beyond physical touch, 'feel' commonly describes experiencing an emotion or state, as in 'I feel happy' or 'she felt nervous.' It can also express an opinion ('I feel we should wait') or an inner sensation ('I feel tired'). The touch-based meaning is just one of several everyday uses of the word.
What is an example of 'feel' used in a sentence?
In the touch sense: 'She reached into her pocket to feel for her keys,' or 'He could feel the rough bark of the tree.' The word often pairs with textures and temperatures — feeling the warmth of the sun, the softness of a blanket, or a cold draft slipping under the door.