Synonyms of odorous

odorous

adjective

as in odoriferous

Related Words

• odoriferous
• odiferous
• odored
• pungent
• spicy
• flowery
• aromatic
• fragrant
• scented
• perfumed
• fruity
• pure
• redolent
• fresh
• savoury
• ambrosial
• clean
• sweet
• savory

Dissimilar Words

• malodorous
• smelly
• putrid
• fetid
• stinky
• noisome
• rancid
• stinking
• foul
• strong
• reeking
• rank
• odorless
• skunky
• reeky
• unscented
• musty
• stale
• stenchy
• fusty
• stenchful
• gamy
• gamey

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective odorous contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of odorous are aromatic, fragrant, and redolent. While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.

odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

When can aromatic be used instead of odorous?

The meanings of aromatic and odorous largely overlap; however, aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

When might fragrant be a better fit than odorous?

In some situations, the words fragrant and odorous are roughly equivalent. However, fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

When would redolent be a good substitute for odorous?

The words redolent and odorous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of odorous

However, this isn’t a specific species but rather a common name or catchall term people use when describing tiny ants such as the odorous house ant or little black ant, says Benson. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 24 Nov. 2024

Common ants found in NC homes The odorous house ant is one of the most common types that make their way into homes in North Carolina, Hayes said. —Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 31 Mar. 2025

Or a baby changing station may need a diaper genie added to take care of odorous diapers. —Nora Colomer, Fox News, 5 Feb. 2025

From odorous workout clothes to terribly dingy towels and everything in between, Gain Rinse and Renew breaks down the residue that causes odors deep within fabrics and removes it at the source. —Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 15 Jan. 2025