insidious

//ɪnˈsɪd.i.əs//
C1Frequency Level 11Formal
Visual representation of insidious

Adjective

insidiousCanonical form
more insidiousComparative
most insidiousSuperlative
1

Proceeding in a gradual, subtle way, but with harmful effects.

The disease has an insidious onset, making it difficult to detect in its early stages.

2

Treacherous; crafty; operating or proceeding in an inconspicuous or seemingly harmless way but actually with grave effect.

The disease has an insidious onset, often going unnoticed until it becomes severe.