Synonyms of sensual

sensual

adjective

ˈsen(t)-sh(ə-)wəl 

as in sensuous

pleasing to the physical senses

the sensual feel of a velvet shirt against the skin

Synonyms & Similar Words

• sensuous
• lush
• pleasant
• delicious
• voluptuous
• delightful
• luxurious
• carnal
• luscious
• fleshly
• pleasing
• bodily
• corporeal
• pleasurable
• dreamy
• delectable
• scrumptious
• gratifying
• agreeable
• palatable
• epicurean
• self-indulgent

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• painful
• uncomfortable
• harsh
• disgusting
• hideous
• foul
• icky

Synonym Chooser

How is the word sensual different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of sensual are animal, carnal, and fleshly. While all these words mean "having a relation to the body," sensual may apply to any gratification of a bodily desire or pleasure but commonly implies sexual appetite with absence of the spiritual or intellectual.

fleshpots providing sensual delights

When could animal be used to replace sensual?

Although the words animal and sensual have much in common, animal stresses the physical as distinguished from the rational nature of a person.

led a mindless animal existence

When might carnal be a better fit than sensual?

In some situations, the words carnal and sensual are roughly equivalent. However, carnal may mean only this but more often connotes derogatorily an action or manifestation of a person's lower nature.

a slave to carnal desires

How are the words fleshly and carnal related as synonyms of sensual?

Fleshly is less derogatory than carnal.

a saint who had experienced fleshly temptations

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of sensual

Tom Ford Santal Blush Eau de Parfum Fragrance is a luxury unisex perfume featuring a sensual blend of Australian sandalwood, cinnamon bark oil, and Ylang-Ylang for a warm, woody scent with subtle musky, powdery hints at the base. —Rebecca Norris, InStyle, 13 Mar. 2026

Your 4th House of Family receives support as sensual Venus sextiles unearthing Pluto in your logical 2nd house, nudging you to refresh your routines and polish your living space. —Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 10 Mar. 2026

The show is set in 2018, closer to the Ashley Madison–fallout era, when the intersection of technology and societal fracture opens the gate for Clark to break out of suburban malaise and into a wonderland of sensual, albeit pedestrian, delights. —Andy Andersen, Vulture, 4 Mar. 2026

The return of the stiletto stood out on runways like Fendi and Gucci, signaling a shift back toward sharper, more sensual footwear. —Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 2 Mar. 2026