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 notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more sensual
- Superlative
- most sensual
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."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for sensual
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 is another word for sensual?
Other words for "sensual" include fleshly, carnal, sultry, animal.
What is the opposite of sensual?
Opposites of "sensual" include abstinent, ascetic, platonic, spiritual, intellectual.
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.
