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

Examples of sensual in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Silk is prized for its biocompatibility, high tensile strength, elasticity, lightness and breathability, and for its sensual, smooth texture and shimmer. —Barrett Klein, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 Oct. 2024

There’s his sensual, supple tenor, which easily shape-shifts from crooning balladeer to party jam belter and hits the entire emotional spectrum in between. —Gail Mitchell, Billboard, 8 Oct. 2024

Their movement was sensual but assertive, bordering on violent, flitting between slow body rolls and athletic thrusts. —Coralie Kraft, New York Times, 9 Oct. 2024

As the dozen songs progressed, Bullock, who is a sensual dancer, absorbed grief and joy, each emotion ever more intense. —Mark Swed, Los Angeles Times, 9 Oct. 2024