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

All across what is probably the best pop album of all time, Michael got sexy, sensual, and introspective in equal measures. —Jed Gottlieb, Boston Herald, 26 Mar. 2026

Elsewhere, Parfums de Marly’s newest scent leans crisp and luminous thanks to yuzu, while Tom Ford Beauty’s aptly named Figue Érotique explores fruit from a darker angle—sensual, slightly moody, and unmistakably decadent. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 16 Mar. 2026

But nothing can match her performance in It Happened One Night for sheer funny-sensual energy. —Darren Franich, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Mar. 2026

Tom Ford Santal Blush Eau de Parfum Fragrance is a luxury unisex perfume featuring a sensual blend of Australian sandalwood, cinnamon bark oil, and Ylang-Ylang for a warm, woody scent with subtle musky, powdery hints at the base. —Rebecca Norris, InStyle, 13 Mar. 2026