Main Entry:

¹scent

Pronunciation:

\ˈsent\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English sent, from Anglo-French sente, from sentir

Date:

14th century

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 26: bits of paper dropped in the game of hare and hounds7: a mixture prepared for use as a lure in hunting or fishing

synonyms see fragrance, smell

— scent·less \ˈsent-ləs\ adjective