sensual

adjective

ˈsen(t)-sh(ə-)wəl How to pronounce sensual (audio)
Definition of sensualnext
as in sensuous
pleasing to the physical senses the sensual feel of a velvet shirt against the skin

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word sensual different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of sensual are animal, carnal, and fleshly. While all these words mean "having a relation to the body," sensual may apply to any gratification of a bodily desire or pleasure but commonly implies sexual appetite with absence of the spiritual or intellectual.

fleshpots providing sensual delights

When could animal be used to replace sensual?

Although the words animal and sensual have much in common, animal stresses the physical as distinguished from the rational nature of a person.

led a mindless animal existence

When might carnal be a better fit than sensual?

In some situations, the words carnal and sensual are roughly equivalent. However, carnal may mean only this but more often connotes derogatorily an action or manifestation of a person's lower nature.

a slave to carnal desires

How are the words fleshly and carnal related as synonyms of sensual?

Fleshly is less derogatory than carnal.

a saint who had experienced fleshly temptations

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 sensual Then on April 6, Venus will dance with Mars in a seductive trine, creating an emotionally rich and sensual atmosphere, which is ideal for love and romance to flourish. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 5 Apr. 2025 His proposition was very strong, yet elegant and sensual. —Rhonda Richford, WWD, 12 Mar. 2025 Bangs were not an overly popular style at the time, but the wisps that framed the face were usually worn wavy and curly as a nod to sensual softness of the Greek goddess Aphrodite. —Irene Coltrinari, Vogue, 1 Apr. 2025 So are we supposed to read anything into the sensual, aquatic clip? —Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 1 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sensual
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensual
  1. sensuous
  2. lush
  3. pleasant
  4. delicious
  5. voluptuous
  6. delightful
  7. luxurious
  8. carnal
Adjective
  • The grain of custom oak millwork is placed in contrasting directions on the kitchen cabinetry and the oversized panels cladding the breakfast nook wall around the custom sensuous banquette that is fabricated by Seventeen Second Design.
    — Jessica Ritz, Architectural Digest, 26 Mar. 2025
  • Its sensuous curves will bring panache to any room.
    — Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 23 Mar. 2025
Definition of sensuous
Adjective
  • The courtyard installation was curated by the renowned international studio Mary Lennox, who created walls of greenery in hyper-realistic volumes where small openings in the lush vegetation house unique and surprising ceramic pieces.
    — Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 10 Apr. 2025
  • The costumes, courtesy of designers Debra Hanson and Nooks Lindell, were frequently sourced from or created by Inuit artisans — including the characters’ enviable parkas, trimmed in lush fur or bordered with vibrant patterns.
    — Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 10 Apr. 2025
Definition of lush
Adjective
  • Some images are pleasant, while others are painful and heart-wrenching to produce.
    — The Pham, Charlotte Observer, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Exploring ancient hot spots like Delphi, ancient Epidaurus, and Olympia on foot is much more pleasant in spring temperatures averaging from the 60s to the high 70s.
    — Helen Iatrou, AFAR Media, 9 Apr. 2025
Definition of pleasant
Adjective
  • Prep Time: 20 mins Cook Time: 30 mins Total Time: 50 mins Servings: 4 Jump to Nutrition Facts Mix up your weeknight menu with this delicious copycat chicken recipe.
    — Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Spring Café For healthier–yet still delicious—fare, head to Spring Café for lunch.
    — Elise Taylor, Vogue, 8 Apr. 2025
Definition of delicious
Adjective
  • Others drew comparisons to Venus of Willendorf, a voluptuous female figurine dating back to 28,000–25,000 BCE.
    — Rosa Rahimi, CNN Money, 2 Apr. 2025
  • The 23-year-old returned with a catchy single for the ladies sporting a more voluptuous figure.
    — Christopher Claxton, Billboard, 17 Mar. 2025
Definition of voluptuous
Adjective
  • Over the years the parade has grown from watching the show in one’s carriage to a fantastical showing of DIY (do-it-yourself) towering bonnets, hats, baskets and delightful spring fashion — wearers introducing an enchanting array of spring fashion colors to shed the feeling of the long winter days.
    — Tonya Blazio-Licorish, Footwear News, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Years: 2023-present Length: 2 seasons, 23 episodes Creators: Lee Gant, Christine Rose The biggest new reality TV hit of 2023 so far is this gem of a competition show with a delightful hosting job by Alan Cumming.
    — Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 18 Apr. 2025
Definition of delightful
Adjective
  • Reviewers praise the smooth, luxurious feel of this comforter.
    — Jamie Ballard, Allure, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Hotel Del Salto, originally a luxurious residence, became a hotel in 1928 to cater to the Colombian elite visiting Tequendama Falls.
    — Josh Rivera, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2025
Definition of luxurious
Adjective
  • This opulent unisex scent made for both men and women marries lush oud with velvety rose—along with equally sumptuous honey and saffron—for a carnal love potion designed for those who aren’t afraid to stand out.
    — Mary Honkus, Glamour, 8 Apr. 2025
  • As a chronicle of carnal awakening, Dying for Sex, created by Kim Rosenstock and Elizabeth Meriwether based on true events detailed in the Wondery podcast of the same title, is unapologetically horny and refreshingly open-minded.
    — Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 27 Mar. 2025
Definition of carnal

Browse Nearby Words

sensory
sensual
sensualist
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Cite this Entry

“Sensual.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensual. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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