Sensation

Definition

A sensation is the process or experience through which sensory information is received, perceived, and interpreted by the nervous system. It often refers to a feeling or perception produced through the senses.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɛnˈseɪʃən/
• Respelling: sen-SAY-shən (with "sen" as in "send," "SAY" as in "say," and "shən" as in the ending of "nation")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɛnˈseɪʃən/
• Respelling: sen-SAY-shən (similar to American English, with "sen" as in "send," "SAY" as in "say," and "shən" as in the ending of "nation")

In both dialects, "sensation" is pronounced with the primary stress on the second syllable, "SAY." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English.

Etymology

The word sensation originates from the Late Latin sensationem, which is the noun of action from past participle stem of sentire meaning "to feel". It entered the English language in the early 17th century.

Derivatives

• Sensational
• Sensationalize
• Sensationally
• Sensationalism
• Sensate

Synonyms

• Feeling
• Perception
• Awareness

Antonyms

• Numbness
• Insensibility
• Unawareness

Usage

The term sensation is widely used in psychology, neuroscience, and everyday language to denote the process or experience of feeling or perceiving through the senses. It is also employed metaphorically to describe significant reactions or excitement generated by events, individuals, or experiences.

Related Terms

• Sensory
• Perception
• Stimulus
• Sensory perception
• Sensory system

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The faculty through which the external world is apprehended; involving awareness due to stimulation of sense organs like sight, hearing, taste, touch, or smell.
• Example: The sensation of warm sand between the toes is often associated with relaxation and summer holidays.

• A widespread reaction of interest or excitement.
• Example: The theatrical performance was a sensation, receiving standing ovations night after night.

• A mental condition or physical feeling resulting from stimulation of a sense organ or from internal bodily change, as cold or pain.
• Example: Patients often report a tingling sensation before the onset of more severe pain.