adj.
Pronunciation: ' sen(t)-sh( ə -)w ə s
Function: adjective
Etymology: Latin sensus sense + English -ous
Date: 1640
1 a : of or relating to the senses or sensible objects b : producing or characterized by gratification of the senses : having strong sensory appeal < sensuous pleasure>
2 : characterized by sense impressions or imagery aimed at the senses < sensuous verse>
3 : highly susceptible to influence through the senses
– sen · su · os · i · ty \ ˌ sen(t)-sh ə - ' wä-s ə -t ē \ noun
– sen · su · ous · ly \ ' sen(t)-sh ə -w ə s-l ē \ adverb
– sen · su · ous · ness noun
synonyms SENSUOUS , SENSUAL , LUXURIOUS , VOLUPTUOUS mean relating to or providing pleasure through gratification of the senses. SENSUOUS implies gratification of the senses for the sake of aesthetic pleasure <the sensuous delights of great music>. 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>. LUXURIOUS suggests the indulgence of sensuous pleasure inducing bodily ease and languor <a luxurious hotel>. VOLUPTUOUS implies more strongly an abandonment especially to sensual pleasure <a voluptuous feast>.