'sensualist' originates from the Latin word 'sensualis,' where 'sensualis' meant 'pertaining to the senses.'

'sensualis' transformed into the French word 'sensuel,' and eventually became the modern English word 'sensualist' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'pertaining to the senses,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person devoted to sensual pleasures.'