odor

noun

ˈō-dər How to pronounce odor (audio)
Definition of odornext
1
as in smell
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 Homeowners should also learn to recognize the distinctive odor that is added to propane. — Caroline Foreback, CBS News, 24 Aug. 2026 Maker emphasizes the importance of ensuring the pillow is completely dry before putting the cover back on, as not doing so can trap moisture, leading to mold, mildew, and odors. — Colleen Sullivan, Martha Stewart, 22 Aug. 2026 To deal with odors that might seep in from other rooms, buy a few air fresheners or even an essential oil diffuser to help conceal anything offensive. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 21 Aug. 2026 Vinegar neutralizes odor-causing bacteria, while baking soda maintains freshness. — The Spruce, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for odor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for odor
  1. smell
  2. scent
  3. reputation
  4. aura
  5. aroma
  6. repute
  7. atmosphere
  8. name
Noun
  • The smell of freshly ground espresso and incense fills the air, and staff speak to patients in hushed, discreet tones, almost as if discussing state secrets.
    — Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • The smell of rubber and oil remains in the air, and the sound of workers changing tires combines with music from a DJ inside the shop’s waiting room.
    — Michael Wayland, CNBC, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of smell
Noun
  • They are well documented in insects and other animals, and some pheromones do not have a discernible scent, Scientific American explained.
    — Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Nobody loves bug bites, or the scent of being doused in bug spray.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of scent
Noun
  • It is anticipated that the new complex would include a wide range of amenities, further solidifying Palmares' reputation as a destination where golf is just the beginning.
    — Jeff Goudy, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Angst over Meta’s public reputation likely played a role in the decision to settle so early, experts said.
    — Sonja Sharp, Los Angeles Times, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of reputation
Noun
  • But some families are dysfunctional and Manchester United have that aura of doom-loop about them.
    — George Caulkin, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026
  • Mexican YouTuber Alex Crashers described encountering an aura battle in Mexico in a video shared this week.
    — Mitchell McCluskey, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026
Definition of aura
Noun
  • 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
Definition of aroma
Noun
  • And the ecological values of roadless areas are beyond repute.
    — Natalie Krebs, Outdoor Life, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Petviashvili’s repute has grown steadily since her early debut.
    — The Editors of ARTnews, ARTnews.com, 28 July 2026
Definition of repute
Noun
  • The smoke is not expected to affect any major airports, even though smoke from a loft will remain in the atmosphere on Wednesday.
    — Lauren Bostwick, CBS News, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Outside the shrines, though, the atmosphere is almost festive.
    — Jane Arraf, NPR, 26 Aug. 2026
Definition of atmosphere
Noun
  • The cops don’t entirely buy that their serial killer is a high-school student, even as Bret identifies Robert by name.
    — Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 27 Aug. 2026
  • Under the map labeled with Strong's name, the northernmost part of the Central zone would be extended west to I-430.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 27 Aug. 2026
Definition of name

Browse Nearby Words

odiums
odor
odored
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Cite this Entry

“Odor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/odor. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on odor

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about odor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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