Underthreshold

Origin

From - + under + threshold, probably a calque of German unterschwellig ("subliminal", literally under-threshold), from unter- ("under-") + Schwelle ("threshold"). More at under, sill.

Full definition of underthreshold

Adjective

1. Positioned below a threshold.
2. Being below the threshold or outside of the ordinary limits of consciousness; subconscious; subliminal.
• 1913, Edward Ebenezer Weaver, Mind and health:The notion "underthreshold" is to be explained as all that which is under the ordinary threshold or outside the customary bounds of consciousness; ...
• 1986, Hormonal ensemble in exercise:Accordingly, it represents an underthreshold load in trained persons, and no endocrine response was observed.
• 2003, Vincenzo Capasso, Mathematical modelling & computing in biology and medicine:In this way it is possible to describe the underthreshold membrane behavior of a neuron distinguishing the effects of synapses located in the main dendritic tree or near the trigger zone.