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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of sensual

Its elegant glam design emphasizes vibrant hues and sensual curvy lines. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Apr. 2026

The character of McCrum’s images is also quite different than that of the ones in the fictional Brainrot, whose sleek, sensual images recall the highly polished work of provocateurs like Torbjørn Rødland and Heji Shin. —Alex Greenberger, ARTnews.com, 13 Apr. 2026

Ozon’s black-and-white version sticks closely to the story but dispenses with much of the narration to focus on the sensual streets of colonial Algeria. —Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 3 Apr. 2026

All of whom were mesmerized by her glistening skin and deeply sensual eyes, which often require nothing but black mascara. —Essence, 1 Apr. 2026