Synonym Chooser

How does the noun aroma contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of aroma are odor, scent, and smell. While all these words mean "the quality that makes a thing perceptible to the olfactory sense," aroma suggests a somewhat penetrating usually pleasant odor.

the aroma of freshly ground coffee

How are the words odor and smell related as synonyms of aroma?

Odor may imply a stronger or more readily distinguished scent or it may be equivalent to smell.

a cheese with a strong odor

In what contexts can scent take the place of aroma?

Although the words scent and aroma have much in common, scent applies to the characteristic smell given off by a substance, an animal, or a plant.

the scent of lilacs

When is smell a more appropriate choice than aroma?

While the synonyms smell and aroma are close in meaning, smell implies solely the sensation without suggestion of quality or character.

an odd smell permeated the room

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of aroma That’s saying nothing of the luscious lather that the Marseille-style soap builds up (and its herbaceous-resinous aroma). Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 13 June 2025 Known for its distinct diesel-like aroma and fast-acting effects, Sour Diesel delivers a heady buzz that enhances focus, creativity, and motivation. Matt Rozo, Mercury News, 10 June 2025 Instead, the couple gets to experience the sweet aroma of nostalgia and baked goods after bringing it to the Queen City. Chyna Blackmon, Charlotte Observer, 10 June 2025 On a warm summer night, the presence of two huge bakeries seven blocks apart on Edmondson Avenue must have made for some sweet aromas. Jacques Kelly, Baltimore Sun, 7 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for aroma
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aroma
Noun
  • Natural vapors coming from trees, like the monoterpenes that give pine trees their scent, produce aerosols and thus low-lying clouds that hover above forests.
    Max G. Levy, Smithsonian Magazine, 26 June 2025
  • After a shower at the gym, this is my favorite scent to put on.
    Sara Coughlin, SELF, 26 June 2025
Noun
  • However, nearly two hours into the flight, the OP was hit by the strong smell of urine.
    Thomas Westerholm, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 June 2025
  • Speaking to Fox News Digital, Parks Canada representative Jennifer Nicholson said that, after opening the bottle, the first thing officials noticed was its strong smell.
    Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 17 June 2025
Noun
  • While jumping from one show to the next, Walters nurtured her relationship with fans and would have been appalled by the current aura of distrust.
    Peter Bart, Deadline, 26 June 2025
  • Verne purists won’t be pleased, because the tragic aura that surrounded Nemo in the novels doesn’t exactly translate here, and the adaptation’s company story line is so overwhelming while ultimately feeling too rapidly resolved.
    Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 25 June 2025
Noun
  • Scent marketing involves strategically placing fragrances at key touchpoints to influence consumer behavior, boost satisfaction and increase sales.
    Tamara Bebb, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
  • Analyst Steve Powers upgraded shares of the fragrance and personal care products stock to buy from hold.
    Alex Harring, CNBC, 23 June 2025
Noun
  • Here’s what communication experts told Fortune about how managers should address an increasingly fearful atmosphere around immigration in the U.S.
    Brit Morse, Fortune, 19 June 2025
  • The Pacers then encouraged fans to create a raucous atmosphere by standing up and waving their yellow towels.
    Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 19 June 2025
Noun
  • Indeed, while La Paz had a record-breaking 600,000 tourists in 2023, Los Cabos — through cruises and air alone — welcomes 3 million travelers annually.
    The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 June 2025
  • The door now leads to a room stripped of light, devoid of fresh air.
    Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 29 June 2025
Noun
  • Over-marinating can also overpower the natural flavor of the meat.
    Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 22 June 2025
  • For fans of a crispy-but-mild Sauvignon Blanc, Liquid Light ($15) brings Washington State to the table with naturally lower sugar levels that lead to lower calories but not a flat, boring flavor.
    Jed Gottlieb, Boston Herald, 21 June 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Aroma.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aroma. Accessed 3 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aroma

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!