'subtle' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'subtilis,' where 'sub-' meant 'under' and 'tilis' meant 'woven.'

'subtilis' transformed into the Old French word 'sotil,' and eventually became the modern English word 'subtle' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'finely woven or delicate,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'delicately complex and understated.'