odor

noun

ˈō-dər How to pronounce odor (audio)
Definition of odornext
1
as in aura
a special quality or impression associated with something the antique shop, with its collection of strange and curious items, held an odor of mysticism

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in scent
the quality of a thing that makes it perceptible to the sense organs in the nose some people find the odor of skunk rather pleasant

Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in reputation
overall quality as seen or judged by people in general her movie career has not been in good odor since her latest box office failure

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun odor contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of odor are aroma, scent, and smell. While all these words mean "the quality that makes a thing perceptible to the olfactory sense," odor may imply a stronger or more readily distinguished scent or it may be equivalent to smell.

a cheese with a strong odor

When might aroma be a better fit than odor?

While in some cases nearly identical to odor, aroma suggests a somewhat penetrating usually pleasant odor.

the aroma of freshly ground coffee

When would scent be a good substitute for odor?

The words scent and odor can be used in similar contexts, but scent applies to the characteristic smell given off by a substance, an animal, or a plant.

the scent of lilacs

In what contexts can smell take the place of odor?

Although the words smell and odor have much in common, 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 odor How to Clean Windows With Soap and Vinegar Adding Vinegar To Your Load Of Laundry Using white vinegar in your laundry helps neutralize odors, remove mildew, stains, and mold, and acts as a natural fabric softener. —Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 8 Mar. 2025 The separation, plus an absorbent additive like sawdust or peat moss, dries the solids and prevents odor. —New Atlas, 7 Mar. 2025 The downside to that moisture wicking is that synthetics retain odor. —Scott Gilbertson, WIRED, 6 Mar. 2025 Suave Men's Stress Relief Anti-Perspirant Deodorant Stay fresh under pressure with Suave Men's Stress Relief Anti-Perspirant Deodorant, delivering 48-hour protection against sweat and odor. —Russel Honoré, Newsweek, 5 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for odor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for odor
  1. aura
  2. scent
  3. reputation
  4. smell
  5. aroma
  6. repute
  7. atmosphere
  8. name
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
  • 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
  • Trump, Musk’s biggest political ally, and his administration seem to be taking it on themselves to protect the brand’s reputation.
    — Ramishah Maruf, CNN, 20 Mar. 2025
  • Providers can enforce access controls, while AI can confirm service reputation through on-ledger trust scores.
    — Evan J. Schwartz, Forbes, 20 Mar. 2025
Definition of reputation
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
  • Bright, intense purple; heady aromas of black cherry, black raspberry, lavender and a hint of clove.
    — Tom Hyland, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025
  • Rich in cultural traditions, different selections of these heirloom varieties favor different climates and geographies differently, offering a wide range of aromas and flavors.
    — Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 15 Mar. 2025
Definition of aroma
Noun
  • Her voice, her public repute, and her dignity — the vanishings of which are all mostly self-steered.
    — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 24 Oct. 2024
  • The long-term leasing of NNN and the fact that they are commonly leased to reliable tenants of repute minimizes the risk of default and promotes a dependable revenue stream.
    — Sudhir Pai, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024
Definition of repute
Noun
  • 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
  • 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
Definition of atmosphere
Noun
  • The plane got its name from Iron Maiden’s scary Eddie the Head, a recurring character in the band's artwork.
    — Michael Goldstein, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Remove the oat cups from the pan, transfer to a zip-top freezer bag, and label with the name and date.
    — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Mar. 2025
Definition of name

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Cite this Entry

“Odor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/odor. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on odor

Nglish: Translation of odor for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about odor

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