Extrasensory - English Definition & Meaning

Daily Word • Learn, play, and grow your vocabulary

Definition

Extrasensory means beyond the normal senses. It suggests perceiving information without using sight, hearing, smell, taste, or touch. This often refers to psychic abilities or a 'sixth sense.' Think of telepathy, clairvoyance, or precognition. These are all considered extrasensory perceptions (ESP). While science is skeptical, the idea of extrasensory perception is popular in fiction and folklore. It represents the possibility of knowing things beyond our ordinary understanding of the world. It’s the realm of intuition, gut feelings, and unexplainable experiences.

Etymology

'Extrasensory' is composed of 'extra-' meaning 'beyond' or 'outside of,' and 'sensory,' which refers to the senses. The term gained traction in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with the rise of parapsychology, the study of psychic phenomena. It highlights the concept of perception beyond the five traditional senses. Extrasensory is often used to describe abilities that defy conventional scientific explanation, sparking both fascination and skepticism.

Related Words

Examples

  • "Some people claim to have extrasensory perception."
  • "The novel explored the concept of extrasensory communication."
  • "She had an extrasensory feeling that something was wrong."
  • "Experiments have been conducted to test for extrasensory abilities."

Anecdote / Story

Remember Eleven from *Stranger Things*? Her powers of telekinesis and telepathy are classic examples of extrasensory abilities. She could move objects with her mind and communicate with people across distances. While it's science fiction, it taps into the human fascination with the unknown. It makes you wonder what other possibilities might exist beyond our everyday perception. Could we all have hidden potential?

Encouragement

Keep an open mind about the world around you! While science is important, don't dismiss the possibility of the unexplainable. Trust your intuition and explore the mysteries of the universe. ✨

🚀 Ready to expand your vocabulary?

Get expertly crafted daily words delivered straight to your WhatsApp. Join thousands learning new words every day!

✅ Daily word delivery ✅ Etymology & examples ✅ Interactive learning ✅ 100% free trial
Start Your Free Trial on WhatsApp
📱 Get daily vocabulary on WhatsApp Start Free Trial