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 Don Artemio and the Crescent Hotel have both been luxurious additions to the surrounding block that are well-received by locals and visitors. Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 June 2025 Aside from skin soothing and healing, the energy healing Nic offers and overall relaxation is pure bliss, ideal for anyone looking for a luxurious self-care moment. Essence, 27 June 2025 Bipartisan legislation has been enacted based on the false premise that immigrants want illicit access to luxurious medical treatment. Literary Hub, 26 June 2025 In the lead up to the wedding, Bezos and his luxurious possessions are back in the spotlight. Saman Shafiq, USA Today, 26 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for luxurious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for luxurious
Adjective
  • Joined by four extremely sensual dancers, Starr powered through her hits, fully choreographed and vocally impressive.
    jsonline.com, jsonline.com, 4 July 2025
  • To preserve two years worth of wartime love letters that are frisky, sensual, imaginative and, above all, honest.
    Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
Adjective
  • In April, Fontaines D.C. released a deluxe edition of the record with a few new tracks.
    Audrey Gibbs, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
  • The deluxe edition of the singer-songwriter’s second studio album Kansas Anymore arrived earlier this year.
    Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 2 July 2025
Adjective
  • 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
  • Melancholy, mischievous, weighty and hedonistic at once, Jis and his existentialist musings formed an entire universe that acted as a refuge for the weary and delightfully depraved.
    Holly Jones, Variety, 9 June 2025
Adjective
  • 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
  • These showy shrubs are bursting with personality—from fabulous texture-rich foliage to luxuriant blooms.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 25 May 2025
Adjective
  • The fourth-richest person in the world is set to have a lavish wedding in the Italian city, an event that has caused consternation online and in Venice.
    James Powel, USA Today, 27 June 2025
  • The lavish Venice wedding of Jeff Bezos, the fourth-richest person in the world, is set to take place the same weekend as Squid Game Season 3’s release on Netflix.
    Kayti Burt, Time, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • Drivers and passengers will observe all the lights of the beautiful town from their vehicles.
    Katie Black, Charlotte Observer, 27 June 2025
  • Until then, the MIT Museum will remain a beautiful shell with very little inside.
    Amir Husain, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • Windows of textile shops showcase sumptuous fabrics and prints.
    Lauren Mowery, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025
  • From July 8 to 11, Prime Day 2025 will offer rare discounts on everything from travel essentials to dinnerware sets to, yes, sumptuous sheets that suit every type of sleeper.
    Jenny Berg, Vogue, 29 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Luxurious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/luxurious. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on luxurious

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