aroma

noun

aro·​ma ə-ˈrō-mə How to pronounce aroma (audio)
1
a
: a distinctive, pervasive, and usually pleasant or savory smell
the aroma of freshly-baked bread
broadly : odor
b
: the odor of a wine imparted by the grapes from which it is made
The wine has a fruity aroma.
2
: a distinctive quality or atmosphere : flavor
the sweet aroma of success
Choose the Right Synonym for aroma

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

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of aroma was in 1788

Cite this Entry

“Aroma.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aroma. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

aroma

noun
aro·​ma ə-ˈrō-mə How to pronounce aroma (audio)
: a noticeable and usually pleasant smell
the aroma of coffee

More from Merriam-Webster on aroma

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