odor

odor

noun \ˈō-dər\

Definition of ODOR

1

a : a quality of something that stimulates the olfactory organ : scent

b : a sensation resulting from adequate stimulation of the olfactory organ : smell

2

a : a characteristic or predominant quality : flavor <the odor of sanctity>

b : repute, estimation <in bad odor>

3

archaic : something that emits a sweet or pleasing scent : perfume

— odored \ˈō-dərd\ adjective

— odor·less \-dər-ləs\ adjective

Examples of ODOR

1. The cheese has a strong odor.
2. This deodorant prevents bad odor from occurring.

Origin of ODOR

Middle English odour, from Anglo-French odur, from Latin odor; akin to Latin olēre to smell, Greek ozein to smell, osmē smell, odor

First Known Use: 13th century

Related to ODOR

Synonyms

air, ambience (or ambiance), aroma, atmosphere, climate, flavor, halo, karma, mood, nimbus, note, aura, patina, smell, temper, vibration(s)

Related Words

aureole (or aureola), mystique, romance; genius loci; feel, feeling, sensation, sense, spirit; attribute, character, characteristic, image, mark, notion, peculiarity, picture, property, trait; color, illusion, overtone, semblance, suggestion, tone

Near Antonyms

discredit, disgrace, dishonor, disrepute, ignominy, infamy, obloquy, odium, opprobrium, reproach, shame

See Synonym Discussion at smell

Rhymes with ODOR

coder, loader, Oder

odor

noun    (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of ODOR

1

: a quality of something that stimulates the olfactory organ : smell

2

: a sensation resulting from adequate chemical stimulation of the olfactory organ <a disagreeable odor>

—odored or chiefly British odoured adjective

—odor·less or chiefly British odour·less adjective

Variants of ODOR

odor or chiefly British odour \ˈōd-ər\ (audio pronunciation)