Pronunciation: [kˈɑːnə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "carnal" is spelled with a "c" followed by an "a" and an "r" and then an "n" before the final "a" and "l". The word comes from the Latin word "carnalis" meaning "of the flesh" or "worldly". Its pronunciation is /ˈkɑːrnəl/ or KAR-nuhl. The phonetic transcription represents the sounds of each letter in the spoken word. This spelling can sometimes be confused with "colonel", which pronounced phonetically as ˈkɝː.nəl.
Carnal is an adjective used to describe things that are related to or associated with the physical or sensual aspects of human nature, particularly referring to sexual desires and pleasures. The term originates from the Latin word "carnalis," which means "fleshly" or "of the body."
In a religious context, the word is often used to denote actions or behaviors that are deemed worldly, sinful, or immoral due to their focus on gratifying the senses or indulging in bodily desires. It is an antonym of the spiritual or divine, highlighting the contrast between physical and heavenly realms.
Additionally, the term can be used to describe the concept of being driven by basic instinctual desires, such as hunger, thirst, or the urge for survival. It implies a disregard for intellectual or emotional considerations in favor of immediate physical satisfaction.
Moreover, in a more general sense, the word carnal can be employed metaphorically to refer to any phenomena or experiences that are strongly related to or characterized by physicality or sensuality, even beyond the realm of sexuality. For instance, one might speak of a carnal pleasure derived from indulging in a sumptuous meal or experiencing the thrill of a roller coaster ride.
Overall, carnal typically conveys the idea of being focused on the sensual or corporeal aspects of existence rather than higher, abstract, or spiritual principles.
Fleshly; sensual; opposed to spiritual, as carnal pleasure; unregenerate.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "carnal" has its etymological roots in the Latin word "carnalis", which is derived from "caro" meaning "flesh". In Medieval Latin, the term "carnalis" was used in a sense related to "sensual" or "physical" desires. Over time, this Latin word was adopted into Old French as "carnel", maintaining a similar meaning. It eventually made its way into Middle English as "carnal" around the 14th century, maintaining its connotation of referring to the desires or pleasures of the flesh.
