sensory

adjective

sen·​so·​ry ˈsen(t)-sə-rē How to pronounce sensory (audio)
ˈsen(t)s-rē
1
: of or relating to sensation or to the senses
sensory stimulation
2
: conveying nerve impulses from the sense organs to the nerve centers : afferent
sensory neurons

Examples of sensory in a Sentence

A study was conducted on sensory stimulation and its effects on the brain. trying to listen to music while watching the TV and eating dinner caused a sort of sensory overload
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
As new sensory input becomes available, the plan is continuously updated to adapt to changing circumstances. Tarun Eldho Alias, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025 One 2024 meta-analysis, for example, found that all manner of sensory experiences—including sounds, smells, flashing lights, physical pressure, and pain—can be incorporated into dreams when people are sleeping and investigators provide the stimulus. Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 1 July 2025 From tried and true Melissa & Doug toys and a scavenger hunt bear built just for toddlers to a mesmerizing sensory puzzle and a $5 classic toy that a Parents editor swears by, these travel toys are all $10 or less and are bound to keep your kiddo focused and entertained mile after mile. Laura Lu, Parents, 30 June 2025 The massive pool at the center of the show immersed the audience in a fully sensory experience. Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for sensory

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sensory was in 1651

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sensory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensory. Accessed 12 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

sensory

adjective
sen·​so·​ry ˈsen(t)s-(ə-)rē How to pronounce sensory (audio)
1
: of or relating to sensation or to the senses
sensory stimulation
2
: carrying nerve impulses from the sense organs toward or to the brain : afferent
a sensory nerve

Medical Definition

sensory

adjective
sen·​so·​ry ˈsen(t)s-(ə-)rē How to pronounce sensory (audio)
1
: of or relating to sensation or the senses
sensory stimulation
sensory data
2
: conveying nerve impulses from the sense organs to the nerve centers : afferent
sensory nerve fibers

More from Merriam-Webster on sensory

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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