sensory

adjective

sen·​so·​ry ˈsen(t)-sə-rē 

ˈsen(t)s-rē

1

: of or relating to sensation or to the senses

sensory stimulation

2

: conveying nerve impulses from the sense organs to the nerve centers : afferent

sensory neurons

Synonyms

• sensational
• sensitive
• sensorial
• sensuous

Examples of sensory in a Sentence

A study was conducted on sensory stimulation and its effects on the brain.

trying to listen to music while watching the TV and eating dinner caused a sort of sensory overload

Recent Examples on the Web

This may include sensory friendly environments with lower noise, natural lighting, or accommodations for sensory needs like swings, foam cushions, fidgets, or headphones. —Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025

Experts recommend considering sensory needs, dietary restrictions, and interests when choosing a destination. —Nathan Diller, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2025

The trailer will offer a sensory walk-through experience with interactive displays and expert guidance. —Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 22 Apr. 2025

These boxes are packed full of three to five sensory and art activities. —Christopher Murray, FOXNews.com, 17 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing sensory

• autonomous sensory meridian response
• sensory area
• sensory overload

Rhymes for sensory

• dispensary
• suspensory
• extrasensory
• multisensory
• somatosensory

Kids Definition

sensory

adjective

sen·​so·​ry ˈsen(t)s-(ə-)rē 

1

: of or relating to sensation or to the senses

sensory stimulation

2

: carrying nerve impulses from the sense organs toward or to the brain : afferent

a sensory nerve

Medical Definition

sensory

adjective

sen·​so·​ry ˈsen(t)s-(ə-)rē 

1

: of or relating to sensation or the senses

sensory stimulation

sensory data

2

: conveying nerve impulses from the sense organs to the nerve centers : afferent

sensory nerve fibers