Synonyms of odor

odor

noun

ˈō-dər 

1

as in aura

a special quality or impression associated with something

the antique shop, with its collection of strange and curious items, held an odor of mysticism

Synonyms & Similar Words

• aura
• smell
• aroma
• atmosphere
• air
• flavor
• climate
• ambiance
• feel
• sense
• ambience
• mood
• patina
• feeling
• temper
• halo
• karma
• nimbus
• vibration(s)
• note
• romance
• mystique
• characteristic
• sensation
• aureole
• image
• spirit
• property
• trait
• aureola
• illusion
• tone
• attribute
• peculiarity
• overtone
• notion
• color
• genius loci
• suggestion
• semblance
• picture
• character
• mark

2

as in scent

the quality of a thing that makes it perceptible to the sense organs in the nose

some people find the odor of skunk rather pleasant

Synonyms & Similar Words

• scent
• smell
• aroma
• stench
• sniff
• fragrance
• redolence
• whiff
• perfume
• fragrancy
• malodor
• otto
• savour
• rankness
• stink
• attar
• rancidity
• fetor
• musk
• funk
• tang
• foulness
• lusciousness
• reek
• bouquet
• spice
• aromaticity
• savoriness
• ambrosia
• savor
• incense
• gaminess
• noisomeness
• fetidness
• acridness
• odorousness
• odoriferousness

3

as in reputation

overall quality as seen or judged by people in general

her movie career has not been in good odor since her latest box office failure

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reputation
• repute
• name
• fame
• character
• report
• rep
• notoriety
• mark
• note
• credit
• image
• honor
• admiration
• renown
• celebrity
• reverence
• regard
• persona

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• shame
• dishonor
• disgrace
• reproach
• infamy
• odium
• discredit
• disrepute
• ignominy
• opprobrium
• obloquy

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun odor contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of odor are aroma, scent, and smell. While all these words mean "the quality that makes a thing perceptible to the olfactory sense," odor may imply a stronger or more readily distinguished scent or it may be equivalent to smell.

a cheese with a strong odor

When might aroma be a better fit than odor?

While in some cases nearly identical to odor, aroma suggests a somewhat penetrating usually pleasant odor.

the aroma of freshly ground coffee

When would scent be a good substitute for odor?

The words scent and odor can be used in similar contexts, but scent applies to the characteristic smell given off by a substance, an animal, or a plant.

the scent of lilacs

In what contexts can smell take the place of odor?

Although the words smell and odor have much in common, smell implies solely the sensation without suggestion of quality or character.

an odd smell permeated the room

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of odor

But other smells, like a fishy, rotten, or unusually sweet odor, can indicate an underlying health concern. —Brandi Jones, Verywell Health, 10 July 2025

The two 15-micron Merino wool jerseys are offered in different weights, created with advance performance via thermoregulation, odor resistance, natural elasticity and ease of care in mind. —Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 8 July 2025

On June 29, KC water reported a change in odor and taste of Kansas City’s water, caused by heavy rains that hit north of the area. —Zuri Primos july 8, Kansas City Star, 8 July 2025

Indoor composting systems should not produce any unpleasant odors as long as they’re properly managed. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 June 2025