Thesaurus

smell

Q: How does the noun 'smell' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of smell are aroma , odor , and scent . While all these words mean "the quality that makes a thing perceptible to the olfactory sense," smell implies solely the sensation without suggestion of quality or character. // an odd smell permeated the room

Q: When is it sensible to use 'aroma' instead of 'smell'?

The meanings of aroma and smell largely overlap; however, aroma suggests a somewhat penetrating usually pleasant odor. // the aroma of freshly ground coffee

Q: How are the words 'odor' and 'smell' related?

Odor may imply a stronger or more readily distinguished scent or it may be equivalent to smell . // a cheese with a strong odor

Q: When could 'scent' be used to replace 'smell'?

Although the words scent and smell have much in common, scent applies to the characteristic smell given off by a substance, an animal, or a plant. // the scent of lilacs

verb

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Synonyms & Antonyms of smell

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 to become aware of by means of the sense organs in the nose

we smelled the aroma of freshly baked cookies as soon as we walked in the house

Synonyms for smell

Words Related to smell

snort,
snuffle

savor
(also savour)

2 to have a vague awareness of

I smell something fishy about this situation

Synonyms for smell

Words Related to smell

3 to be objectionable or unsatisfactory

that movie smells—I wouldn't waste my money on it if I were you

Synonyms for smell

bite
[informal + sometimes impolite],
stink,
suck
[informal + sometimes impolite]

Antonyms for smell

rock
[slang],
rule
[slang]

smell

noun

Synonyms & Antonyms of smell (Entry 2 of 2)

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

the smell of vanilla is supposed to be very soothing

Synonyms for smell

Words Related to smell

whiff

incense,
musk

2 a very small amount

the pie has barely a smell of ginger, but lots of cinnamon

Synonyms for smell

Words Related to smell

dose,
shot

tatter

Phrases Synonymous with smell

drop in the bucket

Near Antonyms for smell

volume

3 a special quality or impression associated with something

a law firm with a mahogany-lined boardroom that has the discernible smell of money and power

Synonyms for smell

Words Related to smell

genius loci

Frequently Asked Questions About smell

How does the noun smell contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of smell are aroma, odor, and scent. While all these words mean "the quality that makes a thing perceptible to the olfactory sense," smell implies solely the sensation without suggestion of quality or character.

an odd smell permeated the room

When is it sensible to use aroma instead of smell?

The meanings of aroma and smell largely overlap; however, aroma suggests a somewhat penetrating usually pleasant odor.

the aroma of freshly ground coffee

How are the words odor and smell related?

Odor may imply a stronger or more readily distinguished scent or it may be equivalent to smell.

a cheese with a strong odor

When could scent be used to replace smell?

Although the words scent and smell have much in common, scent applies to the characteristic smell given off by a substance, an animal, or a plant.

the scent of lilacs