Main Entry: sen·su·ous

Pronunciation: \ˈsen(t)-sh(ə-)wəs\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Latin sensus sense + English -ous

Date: 1640

1 a : of or relating to the senses or sensible objects b : producing or characterized by gratification of the senses : having strong sensory appeal <sensuous pleasure>
2 : characterized by sense impressions or imagery aimed at the senses <sensuous verse>
3 : highly susceptible to influence through the senses

— sen·su·os·i·ty \ˌsen(t)-shə-ˈwä-sə-tē\ noun

— sen·su·ous·ly \ˈsen(t)-shə-wəs-lē\ adverb

— sen·su·ous·ness noun

synonyms sensuous, sensual, luxurious, voluptuous mean relating to or providing pleasure through gratification of the senses. sensuous implies gratification of the senses for the sake of aesthetic pleasure <the sensuous delights of great music>. 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>. luxurious suggests the indulgence of sensuous pleasure inducing bodily ease and languor <a luxurious hotel>. voluptuous implies more strongly an abandonment especially to sensual pleasure <a voluptuous feast>.