Pronunciation

/sməl/

Definitions

Noun

• The quality or property of having a distinctive odor; scent.
• A sensation or perception of a particular smell.
• In British English, a derogatory term for a person’s body odor or hygiene.

Verb

• To perceive the smell of something: She smelled the roses in the garden.
• To have a sensation or awareness of a particular odor.

Adjective

• Characterized by a particular smell: The room had a musty smell.
• Foul-smelling: The fish had a strong, unpleasant smell.

Adverb

• Describing the manner in which something is smelled: He sniffed the air to smell the approaching storm.

Phrases

• “Smell something” means to detect or recognize an odor.
• “Get a whiff of” implies a brief, light smell: I could barely get a whiff of the garlic bread from across the street.
• “The smell of success” is often used metaphorically to describe a positive atmosphere or accomplishment.

Example Sentences

• Noun: The old book had a faint smell of mildew.
• Verb: She sniffed the air, trying to smell if anyone was cooking dinner.
• Adjective: The bakery window displayed freshly baked bread with a mouth-watering smell.
• Adverb: He walked slowly, taking in the smell of the blooming flowers.

Synonyms

• Odor
• Aroma
• Fragrance
• Stench
• Whiff
• Scent
• Perception of smell