To experience a physical sensation by touching something, or to experience an emotion or mental state.
From Old English “fēlan” meaning “to touch, perceive by touch,” from Proto‑Germanic “fōlijaną.” It expanded from physical touch to inner emotional experience.
Language went from “feel with your skin” to “feel with your mind,” using the same verb for both. That’s why emotions often show up in the body first—your brain still treats them like sensations to be felt, not just thoughts to be analyzed.
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