What does "sensory" mean?

"Sensory" is a term used quite often these days. When most people use the word "sensory", they are referring to
sensory processing. Everyone is using this word, but what exactly is it? Sensory processing is one's nervous system receiving messages from the senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, smell and even movement) and interpreting those messages into motor or behavioral responses. For example, when you hear a very loud
sound, your nervous system receives that message and tells your body to cover your ears. An important thing to remember about sensory processing is that each and every one of us process sensory input differently. More to come next week. 
~Sarah Eller, occupational therapist