sensory

adjective

sen·​so·​ry ˈsen(t)-sə-rē How to pronounce sensory (audio)
ˈsen(t)s-rē
Synonyms of sensory
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

Synonyms of sensory

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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.
Pick one sensory moment each day, whether that’s the first sip of coffee or the last stretch of a walk, and hold your attention there for 60 seconds before moving on. — Allison Palmer, Kansas City Star, 9 July 2026 There’s also a Silo multi-sensory installation that will transport visitors into the silo itself. — Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 9 July 2026 Like in the West, luxury spending continues to shift from material goods to emotional and sensory experiences, a welcome development for the wellness sector. — CNN Money, 8 July 2026 Outside, sensory gardens use cat-safe grasses, rosemary, mint and textured ground covers to give dogs something to explore. — Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 8 July 2026 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

Phrases Containing sensory

Rhymes for sensory

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Browse Nearby Words

sensorium
sensory
sensory area
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Cite this Entry

“Sensory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensory. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of sensory for Spanish Speakers

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