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
  • Pura’s Plus diffuser excels in large spaces—even rooms with 23-foot ceilings—thanks to its powerful, pet-safe scents from luxury brands like Nest and Capri Blue.
    Parker Hall, Wired News, 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
  • The Grill at Smooth Rapids serves up hearty meals with river views and often hosts live music, creating a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
    Korrin Bishop, Southern Living, 13 July 2025
Noun
  • 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
  • But while some eagles and peregrines frequently attack flying prey and will skirmish with other raptors, kestrels generally hunt creatures on the ground and are usually on the receiving ends of attacks or ‘mobbing’ by other birds in the air.
    David Hambling, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
Noun
  • The ritual of holding a drink, the complex flavors, and the sense of occasion remain essential, even without the alcohol: something which Liquid Death capitalized on immaculately in both branding and positioning.
    Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
  • The flavor, called Peach Perfect with Raspberry Drizzle, features a peach cheesecake with peaches, on a vanilla crust and finished with raspberry sauce, the company told USA TODAY.
    Gabe Hauari, USA Today, 1 July 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Aroma.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aroma. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aroma

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!