sensualism

1 of 2

noun (1)

: persistent or excessive pursuit of sensual pleasures and interests

sensualist

2 of 2

noun (2)

plural -s
: a practicer or adherent of some form of sensualism

Word History

Etymology

Noun (2)

sensual + -ist

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1760, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sensualism was in 1760

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sensualism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensualism. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

: persistent or excessive pursuit of sensual pleasures and interests
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