sensuous
adjective
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Sensuous and sensual are close in meaning but not identical, and sensuous was actually coined by the poet John Milton so that he wouldn't have to use sensual. Sensuous usually implies pleasing of the senses by art or similar means; great music, for example, can be a source of sensuous delight. Sensual, on the other hand, usually describes gratification of the senses or physical appetites as an end in itself; thus we often think (perhaps unfairly) of wealthy Romans leading lives devoted to sensual pleasure. You can see why the Puritan Milton might have wanted another word.
Examples of sensuous in a Sentence
Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 24 Feb. 2024
Like their sensuous planetary ruler, Venus, Taurus is fond of their creature comforts, often indulging their children with delicious meals, gentle affection, and a cozy living space.
—Valerie Mesa, Peoplemag, 11 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for sensuous 
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'sensuous.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Sensuous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensuous. Accessed 1 Jun. 2024.
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sensuous
adjective
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