The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

sentient

IPA:

Dictionary definition of sentient

Possessing consciousness, the ability to perceive and experience sensations, emotions, or awareness of its own existence.
"The sentient being was aware of its own existence."

Detailed meaning of sentient

When applied to living beings, it signifies that they are not only alive but also capable of experiencing and responding to their surroundings in a meaningful way. Sentient creatures, such as humans and many animals, have the capacity for thought, emotions, and self-awareness, distinguishing them from non-sentient entities. This term conveys a sense of the richness of subjective experience and the ability to perceive and interact with the world in a conscious and meaningful manner. "Sentient" underscores the presence of a conscious mind and the capacity for feelings and awareness, making it a key concept in discussions about ethics, consciousness, and the rights of living beings.

Example sentences containing sentient

1. The sentient being pondered the meaning of life.
2. The robot was programmed to be sentient and self-aware.
3. The alien race was known for its highly sentient nature.
4. The scientist conducted experiments to determine if animals were sentient.
5. The sentient AI system analyzed vast amounts of data in seconds.
6. As a sentient being, she could feel joy, sorrow, and everything in between.

History and etymology of sentient

The adjective 'sentient' has its etymological roots in Latin, deriving from the word 'sentire,' which means 'to feel' or 'to perceive.' In Latin, 'sentire' encompassed the notion of experiencing sensations and emotions, as well as having the awareness of one's existence. Over time, this concept was carried into English, where 'sentient' came to describe beings or entities that possess consciousness, the ability to perceive and experience sensations, emotions, and an awareness of their own existence. It conveys the idea of having a subjective experience and the capacity to feel and understand the world around them. Thus, the etymology of 'sentient' highlights its historical association with the fundamental aspects of consciousness and the ability to perceive and feel.

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Further usage examples of sentient

1. The sentient plant reacted to its surroundings by bending its leaves.
2. The book described a future where machines and humans coexisted as sentient beings.
3. The sentient android questioned its purpose in the world.
4. The scientist's discovery of a new sentient species shook the scientific community.
5. The sentient computer virus infected numerous systems, wreaking havoc.
6. The sentient spaceship navigated the cosmos with remarkable precision.
7. The sentient creature possessed telepathic abilities, communicating without words.
8. The philosopher argued that consciousness was a defining trait of sentient beings.
9. The sentient dolphin delighted the audience with its impressive tricks.
10. The sentient being marveled at the beauty of a starry night sky.
11. The sentient robot displayed emotions and developed a unique personality.
12. The sentient race of aliens had advanced technology far beyond human comprehension.
13. The sentient AI assistant anticipated the user's needs and provided helpful suggestions.
14. The debate centered around the ethical treatment of sentient beings in the virtual world.