English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology

adj Uncommon

sensual

SEHNS-yoo-uhl

Sensual (adj) means relating to physical, especially erotic, pleasure and the senses. Example: “The film was praised for its sensual cinematography.”

adj

1

Relating to physical, especially erotic, pleasure and the senses.

"The film was praised for its sensual cinematography."

2

Relating to the physical senses generally, as opposed to the mind or spirit.

"He described a sensual world of taste and touch."

How to use sensual

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAppealing to the physical senses, often with an erotic or bodily-pleasure connotation.

Common mistake

Sensual usually carries a physical/erotic charge, while sensuous is broader and can describe pleasurable sensory experience without that connotation (like rich, sensuous fabric).

Easily confused with

sensuous → sensory →

Word forms

more sensual comparative, most sensual superlative

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The film was praised for its _____ cinematography.

Etymology

From Late Latin sensualis, "endowed with feeling," from Latin sensus, "feeling, sense."

Origin: Late Latin

Rhymes for sensual

dual equal usual sexual manual annual actual ritual mutual casual visual accrual

See all rhymes for sensual →

Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of sensual?

"sensual" (adj) means relating to physical, especially erotic, pleasure and the senses.

What are the different meanings of sensual?

"sensual" has 2 main meanings: 1. Relating to physical, especially erotic, pleasure and the senses; 2. Relating to the physical senses generally, as opposed to the mind or spirit.

How do you use sensual in a sentence?

Example: "The film was praised for its sensual cinematography."

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial