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 Its warm and spicy aroma is layerable, genderless, and well-suited for all seasons, and its travel-friendly size is easy to pop in a purse or pocket while on the go. Averi Baudler, PEOPLE, 4 Nov. 2025 Tea lovers will love indulging in the flavors and aromas of these 24 black, green, oolong, white, and herbal teas from Vahdam Tea. Molly Blanco, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Nov. 2025 Schott Zwiesel Pure Crystal Whiskey Glasses Designed with a wide base and narrow rim to enhance the flavor and aroma of whiskey, these elegant crystal glasses can also be used for sipping Negronis, White Russians, and other spirits and cocktails. Mark Marino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 31 Oct. 2025 Yet, the volume was a revelation, not only because of its aroma of exciting adulthood but because its aesthetic principles had previously lain beyond my grasp. Graham Hillard, The Washington Examiner, 31 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for aroma
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aroma
Noun
  • The scent of hay recalls a memory of summer camp.
    James Somers, New Yorker, 3 Nov. 2025
  • The scent of smoke and the rhythm of song fill what silence the storm left behind.
    David Culver, CNN Money, 3 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • After all, who wants the smell of their morning coffee mingling with a mystery fragrance wafting from the kitchen sink?
    Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2025
  • Between the sounds, the smells and the watchable crowd, the neighborhood was happening.
    Ken Perrotte, USA Today, 31 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The most gifted preachers transformed that aura into spiritual empires, drawing thousands to megachurches, filling television airwaves and sometimes amassing personal fortunes.
    Mike Hixenbaugh, NBC news, 30 Oct. 2025
  • Since then, the college aura — the open practices, the packed stands, and the small-town camp atmosphere — has become an iconic, recurring part of the Bills' season build-up.
    Rowan Fisher-Shotton, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Made in collaboration with Givaudan’s Custom Essence and manufactured in Italy, the fragrance is priced at $75 for a 20-ml bottle that fits in the palm of a hand.
    Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 30 Oct. 2025
  • The fragrance-free formula nourishes both scalp and lengths, with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, and niacinamide working together to hydrate, strengthen, and support a healthier hair environment.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The Bachelor will always find a wife in six weeks, Kim and Khloe will always make up, and Chrishell and crew will always wear inappropriate outfits in a professional atmosphere.
    Brian Moylan, Vulture, 31 Oct. 2025
  • Strong winds also are expected to lash the West Coast as an atmospheric river (a corridor of concentrated moisture in the atmosphere, sometimes called a tropical plume) arrives on Friday.
    Anna Skinner, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • As the arena goal horn blared and the fans went berserk, Ovechkin swung his arms into the air and collided with the boards as his teammates cleared the bench to celebrate with him.
    Jacob Lev, CNN Money, 6 Nov. 2025
  • The move underscores deepening concerns around air travel safety and the operational stability of the national aviation system.
    Deputy News Editor, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Rows of metal shelves display all sorts of treats infused with local flavors – a result of the mixing pot of cultures in Hawaii.
    Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 3 Nov. 2025
  • The greens, seasoned to perfection with layers of flavor, are a nod to heritage and the comfort of soul food.
    Essence, Essence, 3 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Aroma.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aroma. Accessed 7 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aroma

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