Sensation
sɛnˈseɪʃən
Definitions
2 meaningsA physical feeling or perception resulting from something that happens to or comes into contact with the body; a feeling that you have when you experience something physical.
sɛnˈseɪʃən
A physical feeling or perception.
She described the sensation as a sharp pain.
💡 Simply: Imagine touching something hot – that quick 'ouch!' feeling? That's a sensation. It's how your body tells you something is happening. Like the feeling of sand between your toes or the warmth of the sun.
👶 For kids: A feeling your body gets, like when you touch something soft or hear a loud noise.
More Examples
The cold wind gave me a tingling sensation.
A feeling of calmness washed over her; it was a pleasant sensation.
How It's Used
"The patient reported a burning sensation in his chest."
"I had a strange sensation of déjà vu when I walked into the room."
A widespread feeling of interest and excitement; something that causes great interest and excitement.
sɛnˈseɪʃən
A widespread feeling of interest and excitement.
The pop star's new album became an instant sensation.
💡 Simply: Imagine a brand-new toy that everyone wants. That big buzz of excitement and interest surrounding it? That's a sensation! It means something is really popular and everyone's talking about it.
👶 For kids: When something is super cool and lots of people are excited about it.
More Examples
The news of the celebrity couple's wedding created a media sensation.
The exhibit turned into an art sensation.
How It's Used
"The new discovery caused a sensation in the scientific community."
"Her sudden appearance at the party created a sensation."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
a five-sense experience
An experience that engages all five of the human senses: sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch.
"The rainforest hike was a five-sense experience, with the sounds of the birds and the smell of the damp earth."
sensation seeker
A person who enjoys intense experiences, excitement, and novelty.
"Being a thrill-seeker, she could be described as a sensation seeker and always looks for ways to test her limits."
From Latin *sēnsātiō* ('feeling, perception'), from *sēnsus* ('sense, feeling'), past participle of *sentīre* ('to feel, perceive').
The word's usage can be found in medical texts and literature dating back to the 17th century. It was used to describe physical feelings or perceptions.
Memory tip
Think of your five senses. This is the feeling you get from them.
Word Origin
"Feeling, perception"