sensory

adjective

sen·​so·​ry ˈsen(t)-sə-rē How to pronounce sensory (audio)
ˈsen(t)s-rē
Synonyms of sensory
1
: of or relating to sensation or to the senses
sensory stimulation
2
: conveying nerve impulses from the sense organs to the nerve centers : afferent
sensory neurons

Synonyms of sensory

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Examples of sensory in a Sentence

A study was conducted on sensory stimulation and its effects on the brain. trying to listen to music while watching the TV and eating dinner caused a sort of sensory overload
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In humans and other animals the isothiocyanates stimulate sensory receptors in the mouth and nose, resulting in a peppery, pungent flavor that is often described as sharp rather than fiery. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 26 Aug. 2026 She was stunned how closely autism’s description fit her creative, sensitive girl — her strong need for routine, social anxiety, challenges with communication and sensory processing. — Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2026 These small bags are packed with items meant to help ease anxiety on the go, from sensory tools and calming scents to snacks and headphones. — Mary Caldwell, AJC.com, 24 Aug. 2026 Parent Erika Flores pointed to the school’s program for students with autism, noting that many of these children, including her son, have sensory issues that could heighten their sensitivity to odors from cremation. — Alula Alderson, Sacbee.com, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sensory

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sensory was in 1651

Phrases Containing sensory

Rhymes for sensory

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Browse Nearby Words

sensorium
sensory
sensory area
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Cite this Entry

“Sensory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensory. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

sensory

adjective
sen·​so·​ry ˈsen(t)s-(ə-)rē How to pronounce sensory (audio)
1
: of or relating to sensation or to the senses
sensory stimulation
2
: carrying nerve impulses from the sense organs toward or to the brain : afferent
a sensory nerve

Medical Definition

sensory

adjective
sen·​so·​ry ˈsen(t)s-(ə-)rē How to pronounce sensory (audio)
1
: of or relating to sensation or the senses
sensory stimulation
sensory data
2
: conveying nerve impulses from the sense organs to the nerve centers : afferent
sensory nerve fibers
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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