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 Fine, elegant bubbles carry lifted aromas of raspberry, red apple skin, and rose petal. Paul Caputo, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025 The sweet and refreshing aroma is combined with clinical-strength deodorant protection for 72-hour odor protection. Adam Mills, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 June 2025 The smell of something simmering on the stove—garlic, ginger, soy, or even the aroma of roasted chicken or vegetables. Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 June 2025 So full of flavor and comfort—even the aroma is comforting. Nellah Bailey McGough, Southern Living, 14 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for aroma
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aroma
Noun
  • Her portfolio includes scents made for Calvin Klein, Givenchy, Elie Saab, and Bvlgari.
    Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 8 July 2025
  • Whether you’re drawn to the floral notes of Lancôme’s La Vie Est Belle Eau de Parfum or prefer something more woodsy and masculine like Ralph Lauren's Ralph’s Club, now is the ideal time to stock up on a new signature scent, grab travel-sized sprays for TSA, or pick up gifts for friends and family.
    Kiana Murden, Vogue, 8 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
  • But there’s an aura of inevitability around the Blue Jays right now.
    Mitch Bannon, New York Times, 8 July 2025
  • Among the 16 all-new Houseguests competing for the $750,000 grand prize this summer are an aura painter, a dungeon master and a professional bull rider.
    Carson Blackwelder, People.com, 8 July 2025
Noun
  • In the continued spirit of collaboration, an exclusive fragrance was created for the show by Symrise Fine Fragrance perfumers, a partner of the Istituto Marangoni Paris for the Bachelor and Master of Fragrances and Cosmetics Management and Fragrances and Cosmetics Brand Management and Licensing.
    Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 7 July 2025
  • Open since 2001, the company makes approximately 35 different fragrances, including seasonal soaps.
    Pamela Brown, Hartford Courant, 5 July 2025
Noun
  • With its moody atmosphere and paranormal plots, the show offered something refreshingly different from the network's usual lighthearted fare.
    Tereza Shkurtaj, People.com, 13 July 2025
  • Developed by Indigo Road Hospitality with interiors by B. Berry and architecture by Neil Stevenson, the hotel blends contemporary design with a spacious, residential atmosphere.
    Lauren Mowery, Forbes.com, 13 July 2025
Noun
  • The factory will separate air into nitrogen and oxygen.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 11 July 2025
  • According to the original brief, the first Liberty Lifter was to take to the air by no later than 2028.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 11 July 2025
Noun
  • The restaurant combines flavors from across France, including chef Julien Pilati’s native Champagne and the Brittany of his wife, Laetitia.
    Sloane Crosley, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 2025
  • The restaurant previously brought back some of its classic menu items earlier this year, including the fan-favorite Smokehouse BBQ Bacon Sandwich along with four new tasty beverages that all share base flavors of pineapple and dragonfruit.
    Kimberlee Speakman, People.com, 15 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Aroma.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aroma. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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