Synonyms of voluptuous

voluptuous

adjective

və-ˈləp(t)-shə-wəs 

as in sensual

pleasing to the physical senses

the voluptuous richness of the music

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Synonym Chooser

How is the word voluptuous distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of voluptuous are luxurious, sensual, and sensuous. While all these words mean "relating to or providing pleasure through gratification of the senses," voluptuous implies more strongly an abandonment especially to sensual pleasure.

a voluptuous feast

When is it sensible to use luxurious instead of voluptuous?

While the synonyms luxurious and voluptuous are close in meaning, luxurious suggests the indulgence of sensuous pleasure inducing bodily ease and languor.

a luxurious hotel

When can sensual be used instead of voluptuous?

The words sensual and voluptuous can be used in similar contexts, but 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

When might sensuous be a better fit than voluptuous?

The synonyms sensuous and voluptuous are sometimes interchangeable, but sensuous implies gratification of the senses for the sake of aesthetic pleasure.

the sensuous delights of great music

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of voluptuous

This place gives what is uniquely a sweet and voluptuous touch to the tannins, combined with very intense spiciness on the finish. —John Mariani, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024

Hugo wrote in voluptuous, righteous prose about Notre-Dame’s dereliction. —Michael Kimmelman, New York Times, 6 Dec. 2024

Pinal was a larger-than-life figure, with voluptuous blonde hair and bright red lipstick. —Mauricio Torres, CNN, 28 Nov. 2024

With hints of 70’s opulence, the scent blends together fruits of the forest, voluptuous figs, creme brûlée, and cognac mingle with sultry florals and warming spices. —Emma Sandler, Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024