Synonym Chooser

How is the word sensuous distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of sensuous are luxurious, sensual, and voluptuous. While all these words mean "relating to or providing pleasure through gratification of the senses," sensuous implies gratification of the senses for the sake of aesthetic pleasure.

the sensuous delights of great music

When is it sensible to use luxurious instead of sensuous?

While in some cases nearly identical to sensuous, luxurious suggests the indulgence of sensuous pleasure inducing bodily ease and languor.

a luxurious hotel

When can sensual be used instead of sensuous?

Although the words sensual and sensuous have much in common, sensual tends to imply the gratification of the senses or the indulgence of the physical appetites as ends in themselves.

a life devoted to sensual pleasures

Where would voluptuous be a reasonable alternative to sensuous?

While the synonyms voluptuous and sensuous are close in meaning, voluptuous implies more strongly an abandonment especially to sensual pleasure.

a voluptuous feast

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 sensuous Yet the lush, sensuous surface of the paintings shifts the focus inward. Julian Lucas, New Yorker, 5 May 2025 Galego’s sensuous, intimate paintings speak loudly as the artist herself engages viewers with a soft, ethereal demeanor, underscoring the dreamy otherworldliness of her work. Natasha Gural, Forbes.com, 26 Apr. 2025 The grain of custom oak millwork is placed in contrasting directions on the kitchen cabinetry and the oversized panels cladding the breakfast nook wall around the custom sensuous banquette that is fabricated by Seventeen Second Design. Jessica Ritz, Architectural Digest, 26 Mar. 2025 Its sensuous curves will bring panache to any room. Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 23 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sensuous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensuous
Adjective
  • As new sensory input becomes available, the plan is continuously updated to adapt to changing circumstances.
    Tarun Eldho Alias, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
  • One 2024 meta-analysis, for example, found that all manner of sensory experiences—including sounds, smells, flashing lights, physical pressure, and pain—can be incorporated into dreams when people are sleeping and investigators provide the stimulus.
    Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • Joined by four extremely sensual dancers, Starr powered through her hits, fully choreographed and vocally impressive.
    jsonline.com, jsonline.com, 4 July 2025
  • To preserve two years worth of wartime love letters that are frisky, sensual, imaginative and, above all, honest.
    Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
Adjective
  • All of Tatcha’s products offer a luxurious, sensorial experience, which is why so many celebrities are obsessed with the brand.
    Iman Balagam, Vogue, 11 July 2025
  • It’s defined by a smooth and sensorial handfeel, elegant sheen, comfort, drape and high-definition.
    Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 1 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sensuous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensuous. Accessed 17 Jul. 2025.

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