Synonym Chooser

How is the word luxurious distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of luxurious are sensual, sensuous, and voluptuous. While all these words mean "relating to or providing pleasure through gratification of the senses," luxurious suggests the indulgence of sensuous pleasure inducing bodily ease and languor.

a luxurious hotel

When is it sensible to use sensual instead of luxurious?

The synonyms sensual and luxurious are sometimes interchangeable, but sensual tends to imply the gratification of the senses or the indulgence of the physical appetites as ends in themselves.

a life devoted to sensual pleasures

When is sensuous a more appropriate choice than luxurious?

In some situations, the words sensuous and luxurious are roughly equivalent. However, sensuous implies gratification of the senses for the sake of aesthetic pleasure.

the sensuous delights of great music

When might voluptuous be a better fit than luxurious?

The meanings of voluptuous and luxurious largely overlap; however, voluptuous implies more strongly an abandonment especially to sensual pleasure.

a voluptuous feast

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of luxurious The en suite is arguably more luxurious, with a sunken tub in the corner providing yet more vistas and a second fireplace adding a cozy feel. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 18 July 2025 The houseboat was also quite luxurious, with five queen staterooms, a kitchen, a propane barbecue, two bathrooms, and a rooftop hot tub, which some of us relaxed in while others pulled out fishing rods and trolled the water behind the boat. AFAR Media, 18 July 2025 Somehow both seriously luxurious and utterly relaxed, this flax linen duvet cover and shams merge the material’s trademark rumbled look with a sophisticated edge, literally. Shoko Wanger, Architectural Digest, 18 July 2025 The Inn On Fifth, Naples Best for couples getaway, friends trip, dog friendly Set directly on Fifth Avenue South — Naples’ tony street in downtown lined with shops and restaurants — The Inn On Fifth feels like staying in your own luxurious apartment in the sky. Miami Herald, 16 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for luxurious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for luxurious
Adjective
  • For Summer 2025, Gomez is going for this flirty, sensual ’90s style—with some more contemporary modifications.
    Lorena Meouchi, Vogue, 17 July 2025
  • The look featured a high slit, which once again added a sensual touch.
    Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 17 July 2025
Adjective
  • Clean your pearls with a polishing cloth and a pearl safe spray, our deluxe cleaning kit is perfect for the job.
    Felicity Carter, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025
  • There are several clusters of bedrooms throughout the house, but the deluxe primary suite is a true showstopper with a fireplace, a sitting room with a wet bar, and access to a private deck overlooking the grounds.
    Tori Latham, Robb Report, 7 July 2025
Adjective
  • The swinging Sixties, the hedonistic 70s, and the dress for success 1980’s had no time for Tiki.
    Michael Goldstein, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025
  • Ditto his distinctive appearance, trumped only by a persuasive smile that conveyed an innocence and friendliness somewhat at odds with his braggadocio tales and hedonistic tendencies.
    Bob Gendron, Chicago Tribune, 23 May 2025
Adjective
  • Meanwhile, a beard provided a simpler solution: a luxuriant facial covering requiring only the occasional scissor trim—no barber necessary.
    Margaret Talbot, New Yorker, 21 July 2025
  • Peak wildflower season in the high alpine environment is likely about a month away, but wildflowers at lower elevations in the high country are popping amid luxuriant green meadows and aspen trees aglow with brilliant chartreuse leaves.
    John Meyer, Denver Post, 12 June 2025
Adjective
  • At this point, the major labels are practically giving away disks, throwing them into large boxes, sometimes with lavish notes and photos, sometimes with contemptuous bareness.
    David Denby, New Yorker, 20 July 2025
  • Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his fiancée Lauren Sánchez wed in a lavish ceremony that took place on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice, Italy, on June 27.
    Stephanie Sengwe, People.com, 18 July 2025
Adjective
  • Nicky Hilton Rothschild poses with some beautiful flowers at the Net-a-Porter & Mr Porter Summer in the Hamptons Cocktail Party in Sagaponack, N.Y. on July 17.
    Escher Walcott, People.com, 21 July 2025
  • So whether your interest involves creating beautiful spaces, improving people's health, or something completely different, there's no reason not to explore its business potential.
    Sarah Hernholm, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025
Adjective
  • The room is also fitted with a fireplace, adding to the sumptuous feel.
    Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 18 July 2025
  • The look: sumptuous and sublimely textured, sophisticated without a hint of showiness.
    Shoko Wanger, Architectural Digest, 18 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Luxurious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/luxurious. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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