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 Lemon slices also enhance the simmer pot, so feel free to add more citrus for an even stronger summer citrus aroma. Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 21 July 2025 Make your browned butter by cooking in a saucepan over medium-low heat for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally and skimming foam as necessary, until butter is browned and has a nutty aroma. Katlyn Moncada, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 July 2025 It's inspired by the shores of Vietnam's Ha Long Bay, where the air is rich with the heady, spicy aroma of tuberose. Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 15 July 2025 Bright, medium purple; rich aromas of black currant, black licorice, peppercorn, mocha and graphite. Tom Hyland, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for aroma
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aroma
Noun
  • The new scent — which opens with bergamot, ginger and cardamom, has orange blossom at its heart and is grounded with warm woods and patchouli — evokes a full-circle moment for Butler.
    Jackie Fields, People.com, 1 Aug. 2025
  • Lemongrass is a grass-like plant with a lemon scent and citrus taste.
    Sherri Gordon, Health, 31 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
  • This season’s cast includes a professional bull rider, event curator, marketing manager, AI consultant, aura painter, attorney and a dungeon master, among others.
    Michael Schneider, Variety, 1 Aug. 2025
  • Neeson’s surly, simmering kettle-of-violence aura throws things off a bit.
    Michael Phillips, Chicago Tribune, 30 July 2025
Noun
  • Priced from 10 euros to 190 euros, the line includes six pieces of ready-to-wear for kids, 10 accessories for young and old, three unisex items for adults, and five products in the fragrance and skin care range, including a one-off bottle of L’Eau de Bonpoint perfume available in a new 300-ml size.
    Joelle Diderich, Footwear News, 1 Aug. 2025
  • The multi-sensory experience involves spraying scents on absorbent round cards visitors can take home that list all the products and remind them of the fragrances.
    Michelle Greenwald, Forbes.com, 31 July 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
  • The drink embodies the elated atmosphere of watching the band play live, says Panis.
    Logan Holland, People.com, 25 July 2025
Noun
  • In a corresponding move, ABC struck a deal with WSVN’s parent company, Sunbeam Television, to broadcast network programming on the new ABC Miami, available on Channel 18 over the air and on Comcast, AT&T and DirecTV, plus YouTube TV, Hulu and other streaming services.
    Ben Crandell, Sun Sentinel, 4 Aug. 2025
  • The 77th Emmy Awards air Sunday, Sept. 14 at 8 p.m. on CBS.
    EW.com, EW.com, 4 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • In addition to enjoying Raspberry Syrup the classic way (via a few pumps added to drinks), fans can also experience the flavor in a creative new form.
    Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 28 July 2025
  • But, in case you are stumped, the coffeehouse released a cold drink to give the flavor a shot.
    Sabrina Weiss, People.com, 28 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Aroma.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aroma. Accessed 7 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aroma

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