Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - feel

 I. verb  (felt; ~ing)  Etymology: Middle English felen, from Old English felan; akin to Old High German fuolen to ~, Latin palpare to caress  Date: before 12th century  transitive verb  1.  a. to handle or touch in order to examine, test, or explore some quality  b. to perceive by a physical sensation coming from discrete end organs (as of the skin or muscles)  2.  a. to undergo passive experience of  b. to have one's sensibilities markedly affected by  3. to ascertain by cautious trial — usually used with out  4.  a. to be aware of by instinct or inference  b. believe, think say what you really ~  intransitive verb  1.  a. to receive or be able to receive a tactile sensation  b. to search for something by using the sense of touch  2.  a. to be conscious of an inward impression, state of mind, or physical condition  b. to have a marked sentiment or opinion ~s strongly about it  3. seem it ~s like spring today  4. to have sympathy or pity I ~ for you  II. noun  Date: 13th century  1. sensation, ~ing  2. the sense of touch  3.  a. the quality of a thing as imparted through or as if through touch  b. typical or peculiar quality or atmosphere; also an awareness of such a quality or atmosphere  4. intuitive knowledge or ability