SENSUOUS Synonyms: 38 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

sensuous

adjective

ˈsen(t)-sh(ə-)wəs

Definition of sensuous

as in sensory

of or relating to physical sensation or the senses the sensuous pleasure of a massage

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in sensual

pleasing to the physical senses a gentle, sensuous breeze

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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 On two sensuous, R&B-leaning songs in the middle of the record, Káryyn’s newfound directness is reflected in her lyrics. — Alex Robert Ross, Pitchfork, 15 June 2026 The mother and child in sensuous alabaster. — Air Mail, 13 June 2026 Beyond its tartness, its specificity, and the sensuous, elliptical line work of its prose, the book serves as a vinegary corrective to the novel of nostalgic country-house girlhood. — Rachel Syme, New Yorker, 10 June 2026 His rhythmic language is Latin, as is Negrón’s, but in Sierra’s case that is used not so much for its own sake but to draw you into his overlays of complex counterpoint and sensuous Ravel-like colors. — Mark Swed, Los Angeles Times, 3 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for sensuous

Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensuous

Adjective

The researchers also detected these predictive responses in two sensory-processing regions of the thalamus, suggesting that anticipation involves multiple structures beneath the cerebral cortex.

— Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2026
Sentiments from both participants in the book and Grant’s audience echo how revisiting these recipes offers sensory catharsis in addition to talking about their grief.

— Jessi Roti, Bon Appetit Magazine, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of sensory

Adjective

The high-shine garment was seemingly painted onto Megan’s frame, both sleek and sensual, much like lingerie.

— Amina Ayoud, Footwear News, 18 Oct. 2026
Such is the case with black faux-leather skirts—the bold and sensual style serves as the perfect anchor for incorporating more colors into your wardrobe.

— Michel Mejía, Glamour, 17 Oct. 2026

Definition of sensual

Adjective

Even better, many products are viral TikTok favorites that live up to the hype—packed with potent ingredients and often offering unique sensorial experiences.

— Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 7 Oct. 2026
Perfumers working with Maison Crivelli are sent a mood board, including photos, videos, oral descriptions of people met, music heard and food tasted — varied sensorial components that describe an adventure Thibaud Crivelli has had.

— Jennifer Weil, Footwear News, 8 Sep. 2026

Definition of sensorial

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sensuality

sensuous

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“Sensuous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensuous. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of sensuous

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