Meaning & Definition of Sense in English

1. A general conscious awareness

• "A sense of security"

• "A sense of happiness"

• "A sense of danger"

• "A sense of self"

2. The meaning of a word or expression

• The way in which a word or expression or situation can be interpreted

• "The dictionary gave several senses for the word"

• "In the best sense charity is really a duty"

• "The signifier is linked to the signified"

3. The faculty through which the external world is apprehended

• "In the dark he had to depend on touch and on his senses of smell and hearing"

4. Sound practical judgment

• "Common sense is not so common"

• "He hasn't got the sense god gave little green apples"

• "Fortunately she had the good sense to run away"

5. A natural appreciation or ability

• "A keen musical sense"

• "A good sense of timing"

1. Perceive by a physical sensation, e.g., coming from the skin or muscles

• "He felt the wind"

• "She felt an object brushing her arm"

• "He felt his flesh crawl"

• "She felt the heat when she got out of the car"

2. Detect some circumstance or entity automatically

• "This robot can sense the presence of people in the room"

• "Particle detectors sense ionization"

3. Become aware of not through the senses but instinctively

• "I sense his hostility"

• "I smell trouble"

• "Smell out corruption"

4. Comprehend

• "I sensed the real meaning of his letter"