Sen"su*al (?), a. [L. sensualis, from
sensus sense: cf. F.
sensuel.]
1. Pertaining to, consisting in, or affecting, the sense, or
bodily organs of perception; relating to, or concerning, the body, in distinction from the spirit.
Pleasing and
sensual rites and
ceremonies.
Bacon.
Far as creation's ample range extends,
The scale of
sensual, mental
powers ascends.
Pope.
2. Hence, not spiritual or intellectual; carnal; fleshly; pertaining
to, or consisting in, the gratification of the senses, or the indulgence of appetites; wordly.
These be they
who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit.
Jude 19.
The greatest part
of men are such as prefer . . . that good which is
sensual before whatsoever is most divine.
Hooker. 3. Devoted to the pleasures of sense and appetite; luxurious; voluptuous; lewd; libidinous.
No small part
of virtue consists in abstaining from that wherein sensual men place their felicity.
Atterbury.
4. Pertaining or peculiar to the philosophical doctrine of sensualism.
Hear it pronounced