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
  • There’s a fragrance-free option, which dries down to have zero scent on the skin.
    Kristin Canning, Wired News, 21 May 2025
  • The formula is also conditioning, thanks to shea butter, non-sticky, and has a delicious sweet scent.
    Essence, Essence, 20 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
  • The aura is a hip, wide-open two-floor plan that breaks down traditional barriers, is inclusive and invites collaboration.
    Justin Kroll, Deadline, 21 May 2025
  • Despite this, there is one thing that Hogan did unbelievably well that many WWE Superstars have trouble matching to this day: his aura and presentation.
    Jeremy Hanna, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 May 2025
Noun
  • In 2022, a federal law required the FDA to develop guidelines for disclosing fragrance allergens in certain SPF products by July 2024, the report stated.
    Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 22 May 2025
  • Related Articles In addition, the company has inked a worldwide fragrance license with Desire Fragrances, a subsidiary of Fragrantica, with new scents potentially landing late this year.
    Holly Haber, Footwear News, 21 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
  • The Affordable Clean Cars Coalition, led by the U.S. Climate Alliance, aims to ensure America continues its transition to cleaner, more affordable vehicles, support U.S. carmakers and workers, and uphold states' authority to set clean air standards.
    Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 May 2025
  • Ammonia concentration was 1,000 times normal Scientists measured the concentration of ammonia in the air at a site near Marambio Base, a research station on the Antarctic Peninsula owned by Argentina, for a couple of months in 2023.
    Doyle Rice, USA Today, 24 May 2025
Noun
  • 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
  • For decor, Pollock says to let bold colors and spicy details bring the flavor.
    Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 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 28 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aroma

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