Main Entry: vo·lup·tu·ous

Pronunciation: \və-ˈləp(t)-shə-wəs, -shəs\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English, from Latin voluptuosus, irregular from voluptas pleasure, from volup pleasurable; akin to Greek elpesthai to hope, Latin velle to wish — more at will

Date: 14th century

1 a : full of delight or pleasure to the senses : conducive to or arising from sensuous or sensual gratification : luxurious <a voluptuous dance> <voluptuous ornamentation> <a voluptuous wine> b : suggesting sensual pleasure by fullness and beauty of form <voluptuous nudes>
2 : given to or spent in enjoyment of luxury, pleasure, or sensual gratifications <a long and voluptuous holiday — Edmund Wilson>

synonyms see sensuous

— vo·lup·tu·ous·ly adverb

— vo·lup·tu·ous·ness noun