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 Proxies Blank Slate Non-Alcoholic Wine Alternative, $25 Juicy and dry with apricot and grape aromas, easy to drink. Eric Asimov, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2025 The bourbon features oak, rye spices, sweet caramel, toasted rye bread, and vanilla aromas. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 25 Mar. 2025 Strain recommendation apps often provide educational content on different cannabinoids (like THC and CBD), terpenes (the compounds responsible for flavor and aroma), and their effects. Matt Rozo, The Mercury News, 21 Mar. 2025 The wine offers intense blackberry, mocha, and cassis aromas with subtle earthy undertones. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 29 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for aroma
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aroma
Noun
  • In addition to the clothes, the space will also offer art by Ferney and Curtis Kulig, exclusive scents by Costa Brazil and Cerato, vintage watches by Alan Bedwell of Foundwell, and lamps and ceramics from Steffany Trần of Vyvoi as well as rare books, collectible records and other special objects.
    Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 3 Apr. 2025
  • Its most popular scent, The Mandala, has top notes of green mango and bergamot.
    Gemma A. Williams, Forbes.com, 2 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • But the smell of desperation is still palpable, Axios Closer author Nathan Bomey writes.
    Mike Allen, Axios, 7 Apr. 2025
  • This scent can be used to mask the smell of peppers as well as tomatoes.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 5 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • His aura became an asset, one that marketers could learn from.
    Jeetendr Sehdev, Forbes.com, 2 Apr. 2025
  • But as the man who lived the city’s motto, ‘Out of Darkness Cometh Light’, his god-like aura shines as brightly as ever.
    Steve Madeley, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Two of France’s most iconic brands, Guerlain and Hennessy, have teamed up to release a new edition of the classic men’s fragrance Habit Rouge to mark the 60th anniversary of its inception.
    Alfredo Mineo, Footwear News, 2 Apr. 2025
  • The four signature fragrances available at Ulta—Dark Rose, Midnight Orchard, Legendary, and L’Affaire—come packaged in sleek, fuss-free vessels.
    Robyn Merrett, StyleCaster, 1 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • But beneath driving rain and amid a thunderous atmosphere, the home side had staged a stirring fightback, scoring four goals without reply to seize control of their destiny in the competition.
    Tom Williams, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Project Drawdown is renowned for identifying and promoting practical climate solutions to reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
    Afdhel Aziz, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Tsunoda then spent the second stint starting at the rear wing of Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin, again toiling in the dirty air.
    Luke Smith, New York Times, 6 Apr. 2025
  • New Orleans, Louisiana, knows all there is to know about hot and humid air, which is why cocktail culture emphasizes refreshing beverages.
    Taylor Tobin, Southern Living, 6 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • According to the official tasting notes, there are flavors of red fruit, cola, vanilla, and barrel spice on the palate, with a warm, lingering finish.
    Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Next to the garden, there is a recreational area with its sand playground and an ice cream cart, serving flavors including lavender honey, figs, peach basil, as well as olive oil and lemon sorbet.
    Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 10 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Aroma.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aroma. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aroma

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