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

The utility is also installing new odor control systems at treatment and pump stations over the next five years. —Killian Baarlaer, The Courier-Journal, 29 July 2025

An extensive investigation surrounding the home was conducted by law enforcement, who sensed a strong odor of narcotics, according to the statement. —Michael Saponara, Billboard, 24 July 2025

The Carhartt Force Sun Defender short is crafted with the brand's Force technology to wick away sweat and combat odors. —Nora Colomer May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 24 July 2025

Some professionals recommend running the air conditioner, which also collects odors, and squirting a little Frebrez into the housing of your windshield wipers. —Josh Max, Forbes.com, 28 July 2025