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 But other smells, like a fishy, rotten, or unusually sweet odor, can indicate an underlying health concern. Brandi Jones, Verywell Health, 10 July 2025 The two 15-micron Merino wool jerseys are offered in different weights, created with advance performance via thermoregulation, odor resistance, natural elasticity and ease of care in mind. Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 8 July 2025 On June 29, KC water reported a change in odor and taste of Kansas City’s water, caused by heavy rains that hit north of the area. Zuri Primos july 8, Kansas City Star, 8 July 2025 Indoor composting systems should not produce any unpleasant odors as long as they’re properly managed. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for odor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for odor
Noun
  • The goal is to continue to build his aura and mystique outside of the weekly WWE television grind.
    Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 July 2025
  • People who get migraines with aura—dots or zigzags in vision, or another sensory disturbance that typically occurs before the onset of a migraine—have long been told to avoid birth control that contains estrogen.
    Chantelle Lee, Time, 16 July 2025
Noun
  • The smell will fade overtime as the blinds begin to dry, but diluting vinegar with water helps minimize the potency of the scent.
    Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 19 July 2025
  • Consider matching the soap's color (and the scent) to the jar's jam flavor.
    Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 July 2025
Noun
  • Hong Kong perfected this approach over the last few decades, building its reputation through observation and thoughtful adaptation.
    Sandy Peng, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025
  • The crime rate in Tennessee has long dragged the state's reputation down in the CNBC poll.
    Allison Kiehl, Nashville Tennessean, 15 July 2025
Noun
  • On the other side of the pass, the smell of sulphur rises in white mist.
    Rebecca Chace July 14, Literary Hub, 14 July 2025
  • Rubber mulch may leach toxic chemicals into the soil and make your yard smell like hot tires.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 11 July 2025
Noun
  • Hand-selected by Distiller David Bock, this latest release was aged a minimum of ten years and boasts the rich aromas of leather, plums, and a hint of apple.
    Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 14 July 2025
  • The citrus notes are powerful and sharp; Joseph tasted calamansi and lemon zest, Kelsey tasted zingy lime, editorial operations manager Kate Kassin mentioned aromas of orange peel.
    Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • Good design ranked among the top four characteristics industry professionals used to describe high-quality thought leadership—above speed to market and the repute of the author.
    Yogesh Shah, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025
  • The most stinging repute came from China, which accused the U.S. of abandoning Haiti at a dire moment after helping set up its ruling transitional presidential council, now mired in controversy and credibility issues.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 22 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) predicts there is already too much carbon in the atmosphere to remain under the 1.5°C temperature target, necessitating carbon removal.
    The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 25 July 2025
  • With only six months left before implementation, one wonders: Will it be further delayed? Forests play a critical role in absorbing carbon from the atmosphere.
    Simi Thambi​, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
Noun
  • Kylie Cooper | Reuters 'Not as edgy as before' Through word of mouth and social media, Target's name became synonymous over the years with fashion-forward finds for less.
    Melissa Repko, CNBC, 15 July 2025
  • The Trump Administration’s executive orders on nuclear energy gut regulation in the name of efficiency and cost-cuts.
    Time, Time, 15 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Odor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/odor. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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