Definition of voluptuousnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word voluptuous distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of voluptuous are luxurious, sensual, and sensuous. While all these words mean "relating to or providing pleasure through gratification of the senses," voluptuous implies more strongly an abandonment especially to sensual pleasure.

a voluptuous feast

When is it sensible to use luxurious instead of voluptuous?

While the synonyms luxurious and voluptuous are close in meaning, luxurious suggests the indulgence of sensuous pleasure inducing bodily ease and languor.

a luxurious hotel

When can sensual be used instead of voluptuous?

The words sensual and voluptuous can be used in similar contexts, but 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

When might sensuous be a better fit than voluptuous?

The synonyms sensuous and voluptuous are sometimes interchangeable, but sensuous implies gratification of the senses for the sake of aesthetic pleasure.

the sensuous delights of great music

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 voluptuous Foote records as Leech, runs the great Peak Oil label, and is general manager of the storied Kranky, while Dickow has amassed a vast catalog of brittle yet voluptuous electronic music as Strategy. Daniel Bromfield, Pitchfork, 30 Mar. 2026 In the Wild Eyed Rose, the voluptuous tartness of the grenadine gets to arc across the whole palate, supported by the warm light malt of the Irish whiskey and given a malic kiss at the end by the lime juice. Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 14 Mar. 2026 The 30-second spot features a voluptuous humanoid woman and her muscular male companion dancing at a club with bottles in hand. Rachyl Jones, semafor.com, 4 Feb. 2026 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 See All Example Sentences for voluptuous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for voluptuous
sensual
Adjective
  • The dress merged Old Hollywood sensibility with a modern, sensual style approach.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 22 May 2026
  • The rooms Most rooms are understatedly plush, painted an elegant blue that’s on the sensual side of Edwardian, with bathrooms tiled in crisp black and white.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Voluptuous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/voluptuous. Accessed 26 May. 2026.

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