scent
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.1scent
noun \ˈsent\Definition of SCENT
1
: effluvia from a substance that affect the sense of smell: as a : an odor left by an animal on a surface passed over b : a characteristic or particular odor; especially : one that is agreeable
2
a : power of smelling : sense of smell <a keen scent> b : power of detection : nose <a scent for heresy>
3
: a course of pursuit or discovery <throw one off the scent>
4
: inkling, intimation <a scent of trouble>
5
: perfume 2
6
: bits of paper dropped in the game of hare and hounds
7
: a mixture prepared for use as a lure in hunting or fishing
— scent·less \ˈsent-ləs\ adjective
See Examples of SCENT
- The flower has a wonderful scent.
- The dogs followed the fox's scent.
- The prisoner escaped because the dogs lost his scent.
Origin of SCENT
Middle English sent, from Anglo-French sente, from sentir
First Known Use: 14th century
Related to SCENT
2scent
verbDefinition of SCENT
transitive verb
1
a : to perceive by the olfactory organs : smell b : to get or have an inkling of <scent trouble>
2
: to imbue or fill with odor <scented the air with perfume>
intransitive verb
1
: to yield an odor of some specified kind <this scents of sulfur>; also : to bear indication or suggestions
2
: to use the nose in seeking or tracking prey
Examples of SCENT
- The dog scented a rabbit.
- She scented the air with perfume.
Origin of SCENT
Middle English senten, from Anglo-French sentir to feel, smell, from Latin sentire to perceive, feel — more at sense
First Known Use: 15th century
Learn More About SCENT
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: scent bag
Previous Word in the Dictionary: Scenopinidae
All Words Near: scent
Previous Word in the Dictionary: Scenopinidae
All Words Near: scent
Seen & Heard 
What made you want to look up scent? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
