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Dictionary definition of visceral

Deeply and instinctively felt, often in a physical or emotional sense.
"The music elicited a visceral sense of nostalgia for the listener."

Detailed meaning of visceral

It often bypasses conscious thought and is characterized by strong physical sensations. For example, a person may have a visceral reaction to a particularly frightening scene in a movie, resulting in a physical sensation of fear, such as a racing heart or shortness of breath. Visceral reactions are often intuitive, instinctive, and automatic, and they can be driven by a wide range of stimuli, including sights, sounds, smells, and physical sensations. These reactions can be powerful and often shape our experiences and memories. In general, the term "visceral" is used to describe an experience that is felt deeply within the body and elicits a strong emotional response.

Example sentences of visceral

1. The horror movie elicited a visceral reaction from the audience.
2. The musician's performance evoked a visceral emotional response from the listeners.
3. The taste of the spicy food caused a visceral reaction in her mouth.
4. The soldier's memories of the war still elicited a visceral response years later.
5. The artist's work had a visceral impact on the viewers.
6. The smell of smoke elicited a visceral fear in her, reminding her of a past trauma.

History and etymology of visceral

The adjective 'visceral' has a fascinating etymology rooted in the Latin word 'viscera,' which referred to the internal organs of the body, particularly the vital organs like the heart, liver, and intestines. In ancient times, these organs were believed to be the seat of intense emotions and sensations. 'Viscera' itself likely originated from the Proto-Indo-European root *wegs- meaning 'internal organ' or 'flesh.' Over time, the term 'visceral' extended its meaning to describe experiences or reactions that are deeply and instinctively felt, often in a physical or emotional sense. This evolution in meaning reflects the ancient belief in the connection between the internal organs and intense emotions, making 'visceral' a word that vividly conveys the raw and instinctive nature of certain feelings and reactions.

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Further usage examples of visceral

1. The landscape elicited a visceral sense of awe and wonder in the traveler.
2. The sight of the injured animal elicited a visceral sadness in her.
3. The athlete's intense performance elicited a visceral reaction from the crowd.
4. The sudden noise elicited a visceral startle response from the sleeping cat.
5. The movement of the dancers elicited a visceral response from the audience through their fluidity.
6. Her visceral response to the news was a combination of anger and disbelief.
7. The novel's vivid descriptions evoked a visceral sense of being in the story.
8. The roaring engine of the sports car provided a visceral thrill.
9. Watching the sunrise over the mountains filled him with a visceral sense of awe.
10. The horror movie was so intense that it triggered a visceral fear in the audience.
11. His visceral connection to nature was evident in his deep love for the wilderness.
12. The visceral impact of the music resonated deep within their souls.
13. The heat of the desert sun created a visceral sensation of warmth and dryness.
14. The bitter taste of disappointment left a visceral bitterness in his mouth.
15. The scent of blooming flowers carried a visceral reminder of spring.
16. The shocking news sent a visceral jolt through her entire body.
17. The sensation of falling in a dream can be a visceral and unsettling experience.
18. The artist's paintings had a visceral quality that stirred deep emotions.
19. The sight of the abandoned puppy evoked a visceral sense of compassion.
20. His visceral commitment to the cause drove him to take bold actions.
21. The pain in his chest was a visceral reminder of his heart condition.
22. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee brought a visceral sense of comfort.
23. The physicality of the dance performance was a visceral display of strength and grace.
24. The roller coaster ride provided a visceral rush of excitement and fear.
25. The heartfelt reunion with a long-lost friend was a visceral experience of joy and nostalgia.