sense

a meaning conveyed or intended: IMPORT, SIGNIFICATION. the faculty of perceiving by means of sense organs. a specialized function or mechanism (such as sight, hearing, smell, taste, or touch) by which an animal receives and responds to external or internal stimuli. the sensory mechanisms constituting a unit distinct from other functions (such as movement or thought). conscious awareness or rationality —usually used in plural. a particular sensation or kind or quality of sensation. a definite but often vague awareness or impression. a motivating awareness. a discerning awareness and appreciation. CONSENSUS. capacity for effective application of the powers of the mind as a basis for action or response: INTELLIGENCE. sound mental capacity and understanding typically marked by shrewdness and practicality. one of two opposite directions especially of motion (as of a point, line, or surface). to perceive by the senses (see SENSE entry 1 sense 2). to be or become conscious of. GRASP, COMPREHEND. to detect automatically especially in response to a physical stimulus (such as light or movement).