Synonyms for

Odor

Verb / ˈəʊdɜ: / Another word for odor — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a distinctive smell, especially an unpleasant one

Synonyms & similar words

odour olfactoryproperty smell olfactoryperception scent olfactorysensation aroma scent aroma fragrance smell stench whiff reek perfume bouquet redolence funk pungency musk essence atmosphere ambiance air tang nuance note

Synonyms by register

Formal

stench effluvium malodor

Informal

stink smell reek

Literary

miasma effluence

Antonyms

fragrance perfume aroma scent sweetness pleasantness

Common collocations

  • faint odor
  • strong odor
  • unpleasant odor
  • distinct odor
  • lingering odor
  • foul odor
  • chemical odor
  • body odor

Word family

noun odor
adjective odorous

Usage note

Odor is a neutral term for a smell, but it often carries a negative connotation, especially when used without a qualifier like 'pleasant' or 'faint'. 'Smell' is a more general and informal term.

Example sentences

  1. The odor of freshly baked cookies filled the house.
  2. The odor of rotten eggs made me want to leave the room.
  3. The odor of flowers in the garden was delightful.
  4. The odor of the skunk was overpowering.
  5. The odor of the sea breeze was refreshing.

Quotes

  • The odor of flowers is more attractive than any perfume.
  • The odor of burning sulphur is so suffocating that it makes ones throat sore; but the odor of the match not yet quite quenched is pleasant.
  • The odor of salt water and sand always makes me nostalgic for summers spent at the beach as a kid.

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