smell, scent, odor, aroma mean the quality that makes a thing perceptible to the olfactory sense.
smell implies solely the sensation without suggestion of quality or character.
an odd smell permeated the room
scent applies to the characteristic smell given off by a substance, an animal, or a plant.
the scent of lilacs
odor may imply a stronger or more readily distinguished scent or it may be equivalent to smell.
a cheese with a strong odor
aroma suggests a somewhat penetrating usually pleasant odor.
the aroma of freshly ground coffee
Examples of aroma in a Sentence
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The interaction between the spirit and the wood over the years develops the complex flavors, beautiful color and signature aromas that attract worldwide attention.—Jeremy Kasler, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025 The sea notes take some time to reveal themselves—you’ll first notice smoky styrax and rich oud, which gives the fragrance an earthy and almost gasoline-like aroma.—Emily Orofino, Vogue, 5 Mar. 2025 This citrus-scented odor eliminator is fierce on even the strongest smells, leaving behind a fresh, zesty aroma that makes your home smell like anything but pet central.—Maria Correa, Miami Herald, 3 Mar. 2025 The brand's third limited-edition aroma — following the hugely popular Peach Please and Fresh as Fig — is Cherry Wild.—Jackie Fields, People.com, 1 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for aroma
Word History
Etymology
Middle English aromat "fragrant substance, as a spice or ointment," borrowed from Anglo-French aromat, aromant "balm," borrowed from Latin arōmat-, arōma "fragrant substance, spice," borrowed from Greek arōmat-, árōma, of obscure origin
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