aroma

noun

aro·​ma ə-ˈrō-mə How to pronounce aroma (audio)
Synonyms of aroma
1
a
: a distinctive, pervasive, and usually pleasant or savory smell
the aroma of freshly-baked bread
broadly : odor
b
: the odor of a wine imparted by the grapes from which it is made
The wine has a fruity aroma.
2
: a distinctive quality or atmosphere : flavor
the sweet aroma of success

Synonyms of aroma

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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 Web
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.
The rice is stirred over medium heat for a few minutes, giving the grains time to become opaque or lightly golden and release a toasty, nutty aroma. — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 26 Aug. 2026 The specific compounds responsible for the classic smoky aroma of a campfire – phenolic compounds like guaiacol and syringol – are highly reactive. — Michael A. Robinson, The Conversation, 25 Aug. 2026 Woods, resins, incense, oud, and suede give vanilla a spicy, honey-like aroma. — Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 25 Aug. 2026 However, over time, the tea gradually loses some of its aroma and flavor, so the sipping experience may not be as vibrant. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for aroma

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

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of aroma was in 1788

Rhymes for aroma

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Browse Nearby Words

a roll of the dice
aroma
aromadendrene
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Cite this Entry

“Aroma.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aroma. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

aroma

noun
aro·​ma ə-ˈrō-mə How to pronounce aroma (audio)
: a noticeable and usually pleasant smell
the aroma of coffee

More from Merriam-Webster on aroma

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about aroma

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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