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 Velvety amber woods, and a hint of vanilla, ground the aroma. Jackie Fields, People.com, 12 May 2025 Basmati rice has a deeper, nuttier flavor and a distinctive aroma that's almost popcorn-like. Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 11 May 2025 Its aroma alone is enough to coax anyone out of bed for a warm, cozy breakfast or brunch. The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 May 2025 Each cocktail is rigorously evaluated on flavor elements, texture, aroma, and appearance to most perfectly express the vision of the bartender who made it. Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 5 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for aroma
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aroma
Noun
  • My nightly shower regimen has turned into an everything shower, complete with subtle sea salt scents, scrubs, and body washes infused with nourishing and replenishing ingredients.
    Jessica Fields, Essence, 8 May 2025
  • Lysol's Lavender & Cotton Blossom fragrance is available in a suite of Lysol products to disinfect or clean every room in the home, killing 99.9% of germs while leaving behind a refreshing scent!
    Adam Mills, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 May 2025
Noun
  • Dusty smell: An unpleasant, dusty smell coming from air vents is the result of dirty air filters that need to be changed.
    Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 May 2025
  • The smell of hydrogen sulfide and sewage fills the air, making everyone’s nose crinkle ...
    Audrey Fahlberg, National Review, 15 May 2025
Noun
  • There was a businesslike aura about a team known for their bravado — no shouting, no taunting or joking.
    Kelly Iko, New York Times, 3 May 2025
  • The gray metallic fixturing in the denim area projects a youthful aura, and there are oversize mirrors, 8.8 feet by 5 feet, for head-to-toe viewing.
    David Moin, Footwear News, 1 May 2025
Noun
  • Included in the launch are the Sublime Large Gift Set ($159), which comes with a full, mini and travel-size fragrance, and the Sublime Small Gift Set ($45) featuring a miniature and travel bottle.
    Michelle Lee, People.com, 9 May 2025
  • His transformative journey into perfumery began unexpectedly during a visit to France, where a chance encounter ignited his enduring passion for fragrances.
    Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 7 May 2025
Noun
  • All planets with atmospheres in the Solar System experience auroras, created by the interaction of magnetic fields with high-energy particles from the sun.
    Doyle Rice, USA Today, 15 May 2025
  • At February’s European Film Market, Spanish companies reported an upbeat atmosphere despite the absence of major competition titles.
    Jamie Lang, Variety, 14 May 2025
Noun
  • Airlines, including United, are working with the FAA to address the issues and ensure safe and efficient air travel.
    Zach Wichter, USA Today, 13 May 2025
  • After a cold open that introduced the concept of spores—particles expelled into the air by infected in the last stage of their life cycle that can transfer to anyone who breathes them in—the closing minutes saw Ellie finally hunt down a member of Abby's entourage, Nora (Tati Gabrielle).
    Megan McCluskey, Time, 12 May 2025
Noun
  • For decor, Pollock says to let bold colors and spicy details bring the flavor.
    Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 May 2025
  • Best Time to Visit Zion National Park is open year-round, and each season brings a different flavor of adventure.
    Stephanie Vermillion, Travel + Leisure, 17 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Aroma.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aroma. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aroma

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