aroma

noun

ə-ˈrō-mə How to pronounce aroma (audio)
Definition of aromanext
1
as in scent
a sweet or pleasant smell I love the aroma of bread baking in the oven

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in smell
the quality of a thing that makes it perceptible to the sense organs in the nose the ripe aroma of a sweatshirt that's in dire need of laundering

Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in aura
a special quality or impression associated with something the aroma of wealth and privilege that pervades the manicured confines of the country club

Synonyms & Similar Words

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 This natural chemical reaction triggers browning, richer flavor, and tempting aromas. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Mar. 2025 The interaction between the spirit and the wood over the years develops the complex flavors, beautiful color and signature aromas that attract worldwide attention. —Jeremy Kasler, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025 The sea notes take some time to reveal themselves—you’ll first notice smoky styrax and rich oud, which gives the fragrance an earthy and almost gasoline-like aroma. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 5 Mar. 2025 This citrus-scented odor eliminator is fierce on even the strongest smells, leaving behind a fresh, zesty aroma that makes your home smell like anything but pet central. —Maria Correa, Miami Herald, 3 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for aroma
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aroma
  1. scent
  2. smell
  3. aura
  4. fragrance
  5. atmosphere
  6. air
  7. flavor
Noun
  • The steam created from the heated lemon water loosens the debris, and the lemon creates a clean, fresh scent throughout.
    — Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 9 Mar. 2025
  • Read on to find out more about what the experts have to say about the popular scent booster.
    — Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Mar. 2025
Definition of scent
Noun
  • Everything was steaming hot, and the smell alone was overwhelming in the best way possible.
    — Tamia Boyd, Charlotte Observer, 17 Mar. 2025
  • Unusual smell and off-putting consistency – Indicating premature spoilage despite proper storage.
    — Stephanie Gravalese, Forbes, 17 Mar. 2025
Definition of smell
Noun
  • Another brand that elicited an aura of femininity through the creation of the romance on the runway was N°21.
    — Elizabeth Grace Coyne, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025
  • An aura of rebellious Britishness radiated through the bold clash of tartans, black leather motorcycle jackets, and ornate embellishments that evoked the iconic style of Pearly Kings and Queens.
    — Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 4 Mar. 2025
Definition of aura
Noun
  • Its peppermint fragrance is stronger than that of the peppermint (Mentha x piperita) that is commonly grown in herb gardens.
    — Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 6 Mar. 2025
  • Products with fragrances can also irritate the skin.
    — Hannah Yasharoff, USA TODAY, 5 Mar. 2025
Definition of fragrance
Noun
  • The atmosphere is upscale and inviting, with a great drink selection featuring plenty of bourbons and craft cocktails.
    — Jamie Graziano, Charlotte Observer, 14 Mar. 2025
  • The blurb for the comic: Millions of miles from home, hundreds of ships descend into the stormy atmosphere of a hostile frozen world.
    — Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 14 Mar. 2025
Definition of atmosphere
Noun
  • The rise in the shipments from both companies helped deliver a massive uptick in air cargo demand into the U.S. throughout last year.
    — Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 13 Mar. 2025
  • The Steelers were originally often mocked to take a receiver at 21, but after trading for DK Metcalf, the team's draft strategy is more up in the air.
    — Raja Krishnamoorthi, Newsweek, 13 Mar. 2025
Definition of air
Noun
  • The students break up into groups of jobs including copywriting, flavor specialists, chefs, event organizers and promotions.
    — Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Mar. 2025
  • Ngo said the team aimed to appeal to downtown lunch and late-evening crowd with a streamlined menu focused on flavor.
    — Marcus D. Smith, Sacramento Bee, 18 Mar. 2025
Definition of flavor

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Cite this Entry

“Aroma.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aroma. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on aroma

Nglish: Translation of aroma for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about aroma

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