smell, scent, odor, aroma 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
scent applies to the characteristic smell given off by a substance, an animal, or a plant.
the scent of lilacs
odor may imply a stronger or more readily distinguished scent or it may be equivalent to smell.
a cheese with a strong odor
aroma suggests a somewhat penetrating usually pleasant odor.
the aroma of freshly ground coffee
Examples of aroma in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the WebWith its balanced malt profile and floral aroma, Upside Dawn is an easy-drinking golden ale that suits any tailgate occasion.—Stephanie Gravalese, Forbes, 9 Sep. 2024 The spice comes through, but so does the aroma of other Portillo's foods and hot dog cake just isn't my fave.—Carrie Shepherd, Axios, 6 Sep. 2024 Aged for four months in French oak casks that previously held Napa Valley Chardonnay, the flavor is bursting with winter spices, butterscotch, vanilla, and earthy agave, with a heady aroma to match.—Richard Carleton Hacker, Robb Report, 6 Sep. 2024 Dimitri Weber, creator of fragrance brand Goldfield & Banks, is convinced that kunzea (a spiky flower native to Australia and New Zealand) will reign supreme in perfume thanks to its fresh, herbaceous aroma with a hint of autumnal spice.—Jacqueline Kilikita, refinery29.com, 5 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for aroma
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'aroma.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Etymology
Middle English aromat "fragrant substance, as a spice or ointment," borrowed from Anglo-French aromat, aromant "balm," borrowed from Latin arōmat-, arōma "fragrant substance, spice," borrowed from Greek arōmat-, árōma, of obscure origin
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