odorous

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective odorous contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of odorous are aromatic, fragrant, and redolent. While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.

odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

When can aromatic be used instead of odorous?

The meanings of aromatic and odorous largely overlap; however, aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

When might fragrant be a better fit than odorous?

In some situations, the words fragrant and odorous are roughly equivalent. However, fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

When would redolent be a good substitute for odorous?

The words redolent and odorous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

Examples 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 odorous The crisper drawer of your refrigerator, or any icebox location far away from odorous foods, is the best locale. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 June 2024 Politicians helping their weakest opponent — while odorous — makes strategic sense in California. George Skelton, The Mercury News, 21 Feb. 2024 Contaminated water has seeped out of Chiquita Canyon Landfill in Castaic, forming streams of odorous waste and fumes. Tony Briscoe, Los Angeles Times, 30 Jan. 2024 The odorous orca had symmetrical saddle patches with a distinctive downward angle. Emily Anthes, New York Times, 26 Dec. 2023 See all Example Sentences for odorous 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for odorous
Adjective
  • In Paris, the odoriferous Éppoisses is banned on public transit because of its fumes.
    Tori Latham, Robb Report, 8 Dec. 2023
  • Since that odoriferous eureka moment, Turin has been gathering experimental evidence to support the idea, collaborating with Horsfield to work out the theoretical details.
    Tim Folger, Discover Magazine, 24 Oct. 2018
Adjective
  • And also a few tips on avoiding being the odiferous traveler yourself.
    Zach Wichter, USA TODAY, 25 Sep. 2024
  • These processes produce odiferous compounds like hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercapatan that foul our breath.
    Scott LaFee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Feb. 2024
Adjective
  • The more the soil dries out, the more pungent flavor the turnips will take on.
    Sheryl Geerts, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Oct. 2024
  • The pungent scent of the spiky fruit is mellowed by the cream, a worthy endnote that mimics the grandeur of its surroundings.
    The Bon Appétit Staff & Contributors, Bon Appétit, 21 Oct. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near odorous

Cite this Entry

“Odorous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/odorous. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on odorous

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