sensual
sensual Lexical Profile
sensual Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Relating to or involving the gratification of the physical senses and bodily appetites, especially sexual pleasure, as opposed to intellectual or spiritual pursuits.
"The novel explores the conflict between strict religious asceticism and the pursuit of sensual pleasures."
Relating to the physical senses or sensory perception; experienced through the body rather than the mind.
"The garden was designed to offer a rich sensual experience of fragrant blossoms and soothing water features."
Word Nuance & Usage
'Sensual' and 'sensuous' are frequently confused; while both relate to physical sensation, 'sensual' emphasizes bodily appetite and sexual gratification, whereas 'sensuous' refers more broadly to aesthetic pleasure experienced through the senses.
• Rhymes for sensual
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the 15th century from Late Latin 'sensualis' (endowed with feeling or perception), derived from Latin 'sensus' (sense, perception), from the verb 'sentire' (to feel or perceive).