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 The film cemented her image as a free, sensual, and enterprising woman. Bianca Novembre, Vanity Fair, 28 Dec. 2025 According to Vetro, 69, the more sensual elements of Bailey’s character came naturally to the actor. Jack Irvin, PEOPLE, 27 Dec. 2025 And the sensual images these verses bring to mind—nightingales and angels and silks—make this collection ideal for evenings beside the hearth. The Atlantic Culture Desk, The Atlantic, 26 Dec. 2025 For nearly two hours, people danced, sang, rapped, and smiled in awe as panties were occasionally thrown during a sensual section of the show dedicated to the ladies. Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 22 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sensual
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensual
Adjective
  • The dance party held at the Vermont and organized by Club 90s, channels the sensuous vacation-from-reality energy adored by fans of the TV show, and the book series it’s based on, that premiered in November and became a breakout hit for HBO Max.
    Martine Thompson, Los Angeles Times, 18 Jan. 2026
  • Always sensuous and daringly modern in her choices of lovers, Colette rejoiced in the sensual nature of cats, the softness of fur, their rarely bestowed gestures of affection, their grace and agility.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 9 Dec. 2025
Adjective
  • For example, lush landscaping surrounding homes may be picturesque — but in some cases, such vegetation can provide fuel for a fire.
    David Gamboa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Jan. 2026
  • Designed by the celebrated firm Schultze and Weaver—hotel architects behind New York’s Waldorf Astoria and a collection of landmark Biltmore and luxury properties—the structure rises in Mediterranean Revival splendor, blending Spanish, Moorish, and Italian influences across 150 lush acres.
    Lisa A. Beach, Southern Living, 23 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • To my pleasant surprise, that wasn’t the case with the Promachine 3 115 W.
    Jenny Wiegand, Outside, 23 Jan. 2026
  • By Tuesday morning, low temperatures will fall into the low 60s, and high temperatures will be pleasant in the low 70s.
    Lissette Gonzalez, CBS News, 22 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • And while the pieces themselves are delicious, the presentation sets zChocolat apart from all other brands.
    Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 24 Jan. 2026
  • The atmosphere was festive, with live music playing and an array of delicious hors-d’oeuvres catered by Canard Catering and Black River Caviar.
    Bettina Zilkha, Forbes.com, 24 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The era of the boxy, clean silhouette is giving way to voluptuous, biomorphic, curved pieces that aren't afraid of a little embellishment.
    Sophie Aliece Hollis, Martha Stewart, 7 Jan. 2026
  • The engine’s power is delivered as a seamless, voluptuous stream of thrust that plays eerily well with the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
    Basem Wasef, Robb Report, 5 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • While a standard Whiskey Sour is a delightful experience, almost invariably mixed with bourbon and made smooth and unobjectionable with egg white, the Rattlesnake is that same framework but greener.
    Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 10 Jan. 2026
  • The cozy, historic tavern, complete with working fireplaces, offers a delightful four-course dinner experience, best enjoyed with the Virginia and Tavern wine pairings.
    Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 10 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Her nursery is luxurious with cushions and toys, soft rugs and sofas.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 28 Jan. 2026
  • In terms of places to stay, the region’s revival has been led by the arrival of Fowlescombe Farm, a 450-acre regenerative retreat near the wilds of Dartmoor featuring 10 luxurious suites housed in timeworn stone barns and a Victorian farmhouse, decorated in a sleek but sensitive contemporary style.
    Anna Grace Lee, Vogue, 27 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Otherwise, her relation with John is carnal, her reactions brutal.
    John Hopewell, Variety, 23 Jan. 2026
  • On September 16, Leeann Yammarino, 44, pleaded no contest to two counts of carnal knowledge of a juvenile and two counts of indecent behavior with a juvenile.
    Christine Pelisek, PEOPLE, 21 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sensual.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensual. Accessed 28 Jan. 2026.

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