Sense meaning

What does “sense” mean? Definitions, examples, synonyms and opposites.

“sense” is a noun and verb with 9 meanings. Its most common meaning is: a general conscious awareness.

sense

a general conscious awareness
“a sense of security”
“a sense of happiness”
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”
Synonymssignified
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”
Synonymssensation sentience sentiency sensory faculty
sound practical judgment
“Common sense is not so common”
“he hasn't got the sense God gave little green apples”
Synonymscommon sense good sense gumption horse sense mother wit
a natural appreciation or ability
“a keen musical sense”
“a good sense of timing”

perceive by a physical sensation, e.g., coming from the skin or muscles
“He felt the wind”
“She felt an object brushing her arm”
Synonymsfeel
detect some circumstance or entity automatically
“This robot can sense the presence of people in the room”
“particle detectors sense ionization”
become aware of not through the senses but instinctively
“I sense his hostility”
“I smell trouble”
Synonymssmell smell out
comprehend
“I sensed the real meaning of his letter”

Source: WordNet 3.1, Princeton University