sensate
Americanadjective
adjective
-
perceived by the senses
-
obsolete having the power of sensation
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of sensate
From the Late Latin word sēnsātus, dating back to 1490–1500. See sense, -ate 1
Explanation
When your dog yelps when a toddler pulls its tail, you know that your dog is a sensate creature. Something that is sensate has feelings or can be felt. You can use this adjective for things that you can sense physically, or for people who have the ability to perceive such things. You could say that humans are sensate but robots aren't (yet). Or describe a loud rock concert as an overwhelming sensate experience. Sensate comes from the Late Latin word sensatus, "gifted with sense or perception." It gained popularity as an adjective in the 1930s, when sociologists began using it.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The Sensate anti-anxiety and stress relief device will help.
From Washington Times • Dec. 7, 2022
The sound volume and vibration intensity of the Sensate are adjustable via the app.
From Washington Times • Dec. 7, 2022
The Sensate does come with a ribbon lanyard.
From Washington Times • Dec. 7, 2022
MacDonald has paid partnerships with the sportswear and supplement brand Women’s Best, and the stress-busting device Sensate.
From Seattle Times • Sep. 2, 2021
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
