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

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 sensual From Miu Miu’s asymmetrical lashes and playful coifs to sensual deep lips at Tom Ford, here are all the must-see moments from Paris. India Espy-Jones, Essence, 13 Mar. 2025 To further illustrate this sensual state of mind, there was a singular beauty muse: Tippi Hedren in Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds. Marie Bladt, Vogue, 6 Mar. 2025 Jean, 36, began experimenting with these sensual voiceovers in 2023. Leah Asmelash, CNN, 9 Mar. 2025 Free from the arc of awards season, the fashion world set their eyes squarely on Paris Fashion Week’s debuts: first, Haider Ackermann’s sensual take on Tom Ford, and now, to Burton at Givenchy. Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 7 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sensual
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensual
Adjective
  • Its sensuous curves will bring panache to any room.
    Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Cobbled together by a phalanx of producers, these sounds wash over Carti’s performances in a raging yet sensuous churn.
    Mosi Reeves, Rolling Stone, 17 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The palate is lush, expressing vanilla, black cherry, and light toast, with a smooth, enduring finish.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 29 Mar. 2025
  • Its lush fronds also bring a sense of calm to any room, improving both the physical and emotional atmosphere.
    Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 27 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The keyboard itself is pleasant enough to type on, with moderate feedback while avoiding the squishy feel some budget systems have.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 28 Mar. 2025
  • From the point of view of Paul, Weiss, having to strike this arrangement wasn’t pleasant, but the price was tolerable.
    Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 27 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Thanks to its unique design, the Dutch oven’s lid doubles as a 10.25-inch cast-iron skillet that can easily be used to make your favorite cornbread, delicious cobblers, hot dips for parties, and much more.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Indulge in delicious cuisine and beverages, all while immersing yourself in the evening’s thrilling theme.
    Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 19 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Fans were hyped to see Ice regain her voluptuous figure and showed her love in the replies.
    Michael Saponara, Billboard, 12 Mar. 2025
  • The voluptuous installation, spearheaded by Amy Kule, a longtime producer of the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and Fourth of July Fireworks show, will remain on display through Wednesday (March 5).
    Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 5 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Why parents love it: Both the Octonauts series and movie teaches kids about marine biology in a fun, delightful way.
    Anna Earl, Parents, 26 Mar. 2025
  • There’s still time to catch the delightful exhibit Best in Show: Pets in Contemporary Photography that comes from the Fotografiska Museum New York.
    John Oseid, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The rustic yet luxurious accommodations range from studios to three-bedroom penthouses, offering oceanfront or mountain views.
    Stephan Rabimov, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025
  • Pairing a utilitarian staple, like cargo pants, with overtly luxurious piece (such as a vintage fur coat or heritage bag) gives your ’fit a captivating touch of the unexpected.
    Kelsey Stiegman, Glamour, 21 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Mister Romantic may be an equal-opportunity flirt, but there’s no carnal undercurrent to his desires.
    Stephen Thomas Erlewine, Rolling Stone, 15 Mar. 2025
  • Liñán fills 90 electrifying minutes laying bare the power of fantasy, of physical desire between men, of passions both carnal and emotional.
    Helena Alonso Paisley, Miami Herald, 2 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sensual.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensual. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.

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