Carnal - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Carnal relates to physical, especially sexual, desires and pleasures rather than spiritual or intellectual matters. It often implies a focus on the body’s needs or instincts.
Definition:
Relating to physical, especially sexual, desires and appetites.
Synonyms:
sensual, bodily, fleshly, erotic
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
spiritual, chaste
Common Collocations:
carnal desires, carnal knowledge, carnal pleasures
Derivatives:
carnality, carnally
Usage Tips:
Use "carnal" to describe physical or sexual instincts, often contrasting with spiritual or intellectual aspects.
Common Phrases:
carnal knowledge, carnal sin, flesh and blood
Etymology:
From Latin *carnalis*, meaning "of the flesh," derived from *caro* (flesh).
Examples:
- 1. She rejected his carnal advances politely.
- 2. The novel explores the protagonist's carnal desires vividly.
- 3. His teachings often contrasted spiritual purity with carnal indulgence.
- 4. The artist's work was criticized for its carnal themes.