perception

noun

• 1the ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses:the normal limits to human perception
• awareness of something through the senses:the perception of pain
• Psychology & Zoology the neurophysiological processes, including memory, by which an organism becomes aware of and interprets external stimuli.

• 2the way in which something is regarded, understood, or interpreted:Hollywood’s perception of the tastes of the American public [count noun]:we need to challenge many popular perceptions of old age
• intuitive understanding and insight:‘He wouldn’t have accepted,’ said my mother with unusual perception