---
title: "Sensory Details — AP Lit Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Sensory details are words appealing to the five senses. In AP Lit, what a character notices (and repeats) reveals perspective, bias, and motive on poetry FRQs."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-lit/key-terms/sensory-details"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP English Literature"
---

# Sensory Details — AP Lit Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Sensory details are specific words or phrases that appeal to the five senses (sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell). They help create a vivid image in the reader's mind.

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Imagery](/ap-lit/key-terms/imagery): Words or phrases that create mental images using sensory details.
- Figurative language: Language that goes beyond literal meanings to create imaginative and vivid descriptions.
- Descriptive language: Words or phrases used to provide detailed information about something.