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sensualism

American  
[sen-shoo-uh-liz-uhm] / ˈsɛn ʃu əˌlɪz əm /

noun

  1. subjection to sensual appetites; sensuality.

  2. Philosophy. sensationalism.


sensualism British  
/ ˈsɛnsjʊəˌlɪzəm /

noun

  1. the quality or state of being sensual

  2. another word for sensationalism sensationalism

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • hypersensualism noun

Etymology

Origin of sensualism

First recorded in 1795–1805; sensual + -ism

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.

Hung, a French Vietnamese filmmaker whose eye for cinematic sensualism was on display in early works like “The Scent of Green Papaya” and “Cyclo,” here achieves something of a culinary contact high.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr. Serra plunges us into the earthy sensualism and longueurs of Casanova’s daily life.

From New York Times

But the film’s harsh sensualism transcends the irritations of the plot.

From The New Yorker

The question of spiritual discipline has long been present in his writing: self-denial versus sensualism, the path of Jesus versus that of Byron.

From The Guardian

It cut the roots equally of idealism and sensualism, and was eagerly received by thoughtful men in Europe and in this country.

From Project Gutenberg