adj
Uncommon
sensory
SEHN-suh-ree
Sensory (adj) means relating to the physical senses or to sensation. Example: “The museum has a sensory exhibit for children.”
adj
1
Relating to the physical senses or to sensation.
"The museum has a sensory exhibit for children."
"She experienced a sensory overload at the crowded concert."
"Soft music and gentle lights create a calming sensory room for young children."
How to use sensory
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRelating to the senses — sight, sound, touch, smell, taste.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
sensory overload
sensory experience
sensory nerve
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like sensory.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- sensories
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The museum has a _____ exhibit for children.
Etymology
From sense + the adjective-forming suffix -ory.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for sensory
See all rhymes for sensory →Frequently asked questions
What does “sensory” mean?
The word “sensory” means relating to the physical senses or to sensation. In plain terms, relating to the senses — sight, sound, touch, smell, taste.
How do you pronounce “sensory”?
“Sensory” is pronounced SEHN-suh-ree (/ˈsɛn.sə.ɹi/ in IPA).
How do you use “sensory” in a sentence?
Here is “sensory” used in a sentence: “The museum has a sensory exhibit for children.”
What is another word for “sensory”?
Words with a similar meaning to “sensory” include sensely, sensible, sensual, sensuous, sensatory and sensorial.
What part of speech is “sensory”?
“Sensory” is an adjective.
Is “sensory” a common word?
“Sensory” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between sensory and sensational?
Sensory relates to the physical senses or to sensation itself, as in 'sensory input' or 'sensory nerves.' Sensational instead describes something that provokes intense excitement or interest, often in a dramatic or exaggerated way, and has no direct connection to the physical senses.
What is the difference between sensory and sensitive?
Sensory describes something relating to the physical senses, such as sensory receptors or sensory processing, while sensitive describes a heightened responsiveness or susceptibility to stimuli, emotions, or criticism, a related but distinct concept.
How is sensory used in psychology and medicine?
In psychology and medicine, sensory is used to describe nerves, organs, or processing related to sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell, such as 'sensory neurons' or 'sensory processing disorder,' distinguishing them from motor functions.