palpable
PAL-puh-buladjMeaning so strong or clear that it can almost be touched
Memory hook PALP-ABLE: you could almost PAT it. As the spelling bee reaches its last word, the nerves in the room are so thick that you could almost reach out and pat them; the tension is palpable.
The tension in the room was palpable as the judges opened the envelope.
In context As the last runner neared the finish line, the excitement in the stadium was palpable; strangers grabbed one another’s arms, and no one could sit still.
Similar tangible, obvious, noticeable, perceptible
Opposite imperceptible, intangible, subtle
From Late Latin palpabilis, “able to be touched,” from palpare (to touch gently, to stroke).