Definition of sensualnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word sensual different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of sensual are animal, carnal, and fleshly. While all these words mean "having a relation to the body," sensual may apply to any gratification of a bodily desire or pleasure but commonly implies sexual appetite with absence of the spiritual or intellectual.

fleshpots providing sensual delights

When could animal be used to replace sensual?

Although the words animal and sensual have much in common, animal stresses the physical as distinguished from the rational nature of a person.

led a mindless animal existence

When might carnal be a better fit than sensual?

In some situations, the words carnal and sensual are roughly equivalent. However, carnal may mean only this but more often connotes derogatorily an action or manifestation of a person's lower nature.

a slave to carnal desires

How are the words fleshly and carnal related as synonyms of sensual?

Fleshly is less derogatory than carnal.

a saint who had experienced fleshly temptations

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 sensual Writer-director Nia DaCosta makes one of 19th-century playwright Henrik Ibsen's most beloved plays, Hedda Gabler, fully urgent and relevant for a modern audience with this witty, sensual drama. Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 22 Feb. 2026 The sensual rhythm carries emotional lyrics about ending a relationship and not being able to let go. Natalia Cano, Billboard, 20 Feb. 2026 The slip dress was a Carolyn calling card — the perfect mix of casual and sensual. Rachel Tashjian, CNN Money, 19 Feb. 2026 The colorful artworks largely depict the sensual hedonistic lifestyles of city dwellers including merchants, courtesans and kabuki actors. Jessica Gelt, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sensual
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensual
Adjective
  • Then scoop up some of that soft, sensuous garlic and spread it over the char.
    Eric Wareheim, Saveur, 26 Feb. 2026
  • There was so much sensory stuff, which was also sensuous, talking about desire.
    Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 13 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Most structures feature lush green roofs and an on-site farm provides many of the ingredients used in the restaurant.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Mar. 2026
  • The Hotel to Book The new Ocama, which opened in December, is a villa-only boutique retreat tucked into the lush tip of the Samaná Peninsula, overlooking the perfectly turquoise Rincón Bay.
    Annie Daly, Vogue, 10 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Are not random acts of rhyming gone wrong still more pleasant than thinking about squealing war-babies, the wrecking ball that is the last week of a Florida legislative session or the AI Apocalypse which should be here (checks watch) very soon?
    Pat Beall, Sun Sentinel, 13 Mar. 2026
  • The fireplace, stone walls, and ambient lighting, paired with hand-cut steaks, homemade desserts, and Virginia wine pairings, lull diners into a pleasant reverie.
    Lydia Mansel, Southern Living, 13 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • And a recent trip to Costco had the perfect restaurant copycat product to kick things off in delicious, budget-friendly style.
    Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Mar. 2026
  • Today, visitors can still tour its founding castle and its Museum of Arms, stroll its cobblestone streets, and duck into its delicious restaurants serving traditional meals.
    Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 7 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • In the Wild Eyed Rose, the voluptuous tartness of the grenadine gets to arc across the whole palate, supported by the warm light malt of the Irish whiskey and given a malic kiss at the end by the lime juice.
    Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 7 Mar. 2026
  • The 30-second spot features a voluptuous humanoid woman and her muscular male companion dancing at a club with bottles in hand.
    Rachyl Jones, semafor.com, 4 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • In the 68th minute, Liel Abada showed delightful control on a ball floated into the box, putting it on a tee for Pep Biel to convert, putting Charlotte FC ahead to stay.
    David Eckert, Austin American Statesman, 7 Mar. 2026
  • Childhood photos of both Roberts, found in some guest rooms, are delightful Easter eggs.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • If not eaten immediately, the lovely creaminess becomes a dense pile of goop with no hope of Cinderella-ing itself back to a luxurious state.
    Nina Moskowitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 Mar. 2026
  • The construction gives it a medium-support feel—plush enough to feel luxurious, yet structured enough to provide meaningful reinforcement.
    Bailey Berg, Architectural Digest, 10 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • In a similar vein, Byredo’s Animalique exudes an equally alluring vibe that’s slightly funkier and more carnal.
    Sophie Wirt, InStyle, 26 Feb. 2026
  • All evidence shows that Chee and Manuelito have engaged in carnal intimacy as the prophets foretold.
    Jordan Hoffman, Entertainment Weekly, 16 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Sensual.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensual. Accessed 15 Mar. 2026.

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