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 Diana, originally a student in the classic series, is now a doctor navigating her supernatural powers, a cursed love triangle, and a far more sensual storyline​ - complete with steamy scenes that are a bold departure from the chaste kisses of 35 years ago. Veronica Villafañe, Forbes.com, 12 Apr. 2025 Kenna Forde has also pegged Japanese label Shushu/Tong for Lower, the Japanese brand that traverses the hyper-feminine and more subversive, sensual takes on corporate wear that harks back to Helly. Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 6 Apr. 2025 Officially launched at the end of the year, the collection brings Louboutin’s signature design codes to life in eyewear form—think bold architectural lines, sensual curves, and unmistakable touches of red. Mecca Pryor, Essence, 14 Apr. 2025 The French-Tunisian designer was already making waves in Paris; now he was poised to seduce America with his inimitable combination of technical mastery and sensual provocation. Lilah Ramzi, Vogue, 11 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sensual
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensual
Adjective
  • The grain of custom oak millwork is placed in contrasting directions on the kitchen cabinetry and the oversized panels cladding the breakfast nook wall around the custom sensuous banquette that is fabricated by Seventeen Second Design.
    Jessica Ritz, Architectural Digest, 26 Mar. 2025
  • Its sensuous curves will bring panache to any room.
    Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 23 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Ireland’s lush, green landscapes are dotted with Stone Age tombs, with some burial sites dating back 5,000 years.
    Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 22 Apr. 2025
  • Wild beauty abounds in the landscape surrounding this quaint holiday home, which features serene, sunlit views of lush greenery and azure skies.
    Kimberley Mok, Travel + Leisure, 22 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Most of the week should be pleasant in the Baltimore area, with temperatures hovering in the upper 70s and low 80s before a chance of showers into the weekend.
    Todd Karpovich, Baltimore Sun, 22 Apr. 2025
  • On bord, the Norse flight attendants were pleasant and service was frequent.
    Michael Goldstein, Forbes.com, 21 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The scents are delicious without ever smelling overbearing, the burn times are on point, and the candle jars blend in as pretty decor in any room.
    Carly Totten, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Grilling is a simple and delicious way to enjoy proteins and veggies, but there’s ways to make that grilling experience bigger and bolder, and add a lot of flavor.
    Aly Walansky, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Others drew comparisons to Venus of Willendorf, a voluptuous female figurine dating back to 28,000–25,000 BCE.
    Rosa Rahimi, CNN Money, 2 Apr. 2025
  • The 23-year-old returned with a catchy single for the ladies sporting a more voluptuous figure.
    Christopher Claxton, Billboard, 17 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • As for that delightful scent McGuinness referenced?
    Victoria Moorhouse, Glamour, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Inside the delightful Pasadena Showcase House of Design, where maximalism is in.
    Ryan Fonseca, Los Angeles Times, 18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Hotel Del Salto, originally a luxurious residence, became a hotel in 1928 to cater to the Colombian elite visiting Tequendama Falls.
    Josh Rivera, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2025
  • The scene: The sands of Miami Beach, which were transformed into a luxurious playground/open air concert hall for the rich and famous.
    Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Translating carnal attraction, magnetism, and deepening desire, Ropion says the fragrance is ripe with a flower that refuses to go unnoticed: tuberose.
    Essence, Essence, 24 Apr. 2025
  • This opulent unisex scent made for both men and women marries lush oud with velvety rose—along with equally sumptuous honey and saffron—for a carnal love potion designed for those who aren’t afraid to stand out.
    Mary Honkus, Glamour, 8 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sensual.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensual. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

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