aroma

noun

aro·​ma ə-ˈrō-mə 

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

Synonyms of aroma

• scent
• fragrance
• fragrancy

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

These bottles make a strong case that differences in blending, barrel treatment, and proof can yield dramatically different aroma and flavor profiles. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 24 May 2026

That sound, and the aroma of hot juices hitting the charcoal, can draw a crowd in minutes. —C.w. Cameron, AJC.com, 23 May 2026

The 2023 Reserve Pinot Noir has aromas of black cherry, plum, and black olive tapenade with silky tannins and flavors of cherry, cranberry, and brown baking spices. —Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 22 May 2026

Inspired by Magnolia Bakery’s bestselling treat, the skin salve delivered a mouth-watering aroma and up to 12 hours of hydration. —Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 19 May 2026

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

Rhymes for aroma

• diploma
• fibroma
• glaucoma
• glioma
• lipoma
• lymphoma
• myoma
• myxoma
• neuroma
• paloma
• schwannoma
• scotoma

Kids Definition

aroma

noun

aro·​ma ə-ˈrō-mə 

: a noticeable and usually pleasant smell

the aroma of coffee