Synonyms of sensual

sensual

adjective

ˈsen(t)-sh(ə-)wəl 

as in sensuous

pleasing to the physical senses

the sensual feel of a velvet shirt against the skin

Synonyms & Similar Words

• sensuous
• lush
• pleasant
• delicious
• voluptuous
• delightful
• luxurious
• carnal
• luscious
• fleshly
• pleasing
• bodily
• corporeal
• pleasurable
• dreamy
• delectable
• scrumptious
• gratifying
• agreeable
• palatable
• epicurean
• self-indulgent

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• painful
• uncomfortable
• harsh
• disgusting
• hideous
• foul
• icky

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

Recent Examples of sensual

To finish, highlighter fills in the highlights , and the lips are worked with a brown liner, then filled in with a gloss or a moisturizing lipstick to achieve a sensual and succulent pout—the perfect finishing touch for this look. —María Munsuri, Glamour, 21 Sep. 2025

His sophomore feature is a sensual drama following young Luz and Pedro, who meet by chance at the olive oil mill but are unaware of the existence of Omar, who lies in the infirmary of the nearby monastery. —Rafa Sales Ross, Variety, 21 Sep. 2025

The sensual lips turned inward, busy with the sorrow overflowing from his heart. —Garth Greenwell, Harpers Magazine, 19 Sep. 2025

In March, the actress — who starred as Lavender Brown in the Harry Potter franchise — opened up about her journey of starting an OnlyFans to share sensual videos and anecdotes about her hair as a way of supporting her family of six and using the funds to pay for home improvements. —Starr Bowenbank, PEOPLE, 18 Sep. 2025