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 Physically demanding and often extraordinarily sensuous, his ballets are hard to look away from. David Lyman, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025 The Eating of an Orange captivates with its minimalist and surrealist elegance, transforming a simple act into a profound journey filled with Lynchian dream logic and sensuous fluidity. Matthew Carey, Deadline, 26 May 2025 In the hotel’s 123 rooms, sensuous textures and sinuous lines reflect the modernized art deco decor. Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 16 Apr. 2025 Wise, on the other hand, is sensuous and loving, but she too is hamstrung by the material. Esther Zuckerman, IndieWire, 27 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sensuous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensuous
Adjective
  • This neurocosmetic innovation, inspired by Nobel Prize-winning research on touch receptors, works by activating sensory pathways in the skin to trigger the release of mood-regulating biomarkers, establishing a continuous feedback loop between skin repair and emotional balance.
    Footwear News, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2025
  • Autism symptoms in adults often include social communication difficulties, restricted and repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities.
    Laura Dorwart, Health, 29 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Bieber’s iteration on the trend elevated the style to a cheeky, high-fashion moment with feminine touches and sensual edge.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2025
  • For the sensual and aesthetically-inclined Libras, Atlas says a hobby like candle making is a match made in heaven.
    Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • With a thoughtful use of color, Wezel constructs a visual world that feels both alienating and intensely sensorial, like a vivid dream uncomfortably close to reality.
    Caterina De Biasio, Vogue, 24 Sep. 2025
  • Beauty Biz and a Bartender The Prospective Trend Area took on a more sensorial, experiential tone this season with a larger space and immersive experiences.
    Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 22 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sensuous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensuous. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on sensuous

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!