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 of sensory

• sensorial

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

The immersive display at the Silos includes a bespoke soundtrack and the fragrance Bois d’Encens, guiding visitors through a sensory journey centered on light as a metaphor for creativity and timeless elegance. —Photovogue, Vogue, 27 Feb. 2026

Guests are greeted with a custom cocktail and escorted to their seats around a circular table in a private room for a multi-course, multi-sensory dining experience complete with music and interactive visuals. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Feb. 2026

Each day will include art-making activities, story times, sensory play, tours and gallery activities for the whole family. —Alyson Rodriguez, Dallas Morning News, 25 Feb. 2026

The 17,600-seat venue features a wraparound LED display that extends up and around the audience, immersive spatial audio and multi-sensory 4D elements designed to heighten the live experience. —Holly Alvarado, Oc Register, 25 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing sensory

• autonomous sensory meridian response
• sensory area
• sensory deprivation
• 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