aroma

noun

aro·​ma ə-ˈrō-mə 

1

a

: a distinctive, pervasive, and usually pleasant or savory smell

the aroma of freshly-baked bread

broadly : odor

b

: the odor of a wine imparted by the grapes from which it is made

The wine has a fruity aroma.

2

: a distinctive quality or atmosphere : flavor

the sweet aroma of success

Synonyms

• attar
• otto
• balm
• bouquet
• fragrance
• fragrancy
• incense
• perfume
• redolence
• scent
• spice

Choose the Right Synonym for aroma

smell, scent, odor, aroma mean the quality that makes a thing perceptible to the olfactory sense.

smell implies solely the sensation without suggestion of quality or character.

an odd smell permeated the room

scent applies to the characteristic smell given off by a substance, an animal, or a plant.

the scent of lilacs

odor may imply a stronger or more readily distinguished scent or it may be equivalent to smell.

a cheese with a strong odor

aroma suggests a somewhat penetrating usually pleasant odor.

the aroma of freshly ground coffee

Examples of aroma in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Harvesting and Drying Herbs: This class will cover essential techniques, tips, and best practices for harvesting and drying herbs to preserve their potency, flavor, and aroma. —Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2024

It is garnet colored with aromas of red raspberry, black cherry, and cherry vanilla. —Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 20 June 2024

World class price gouging by local hotels and restaurants is as synonymous with Eugene as track, liberal politics and the ever-present aroma of marijuana. —Scott M. Reid, Orange County Register, 19 June 2024

Seemingly overnight, lines began snaking around the building as customers became tantalized by the warm aroma of the seafood haven. —Maddi Langweil, Hartford Courant, 18 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English aromat "fragrant substance, as a spice or ointment," borrowed from Anglo-French aromat, aromant "balm," borrowed from Latin arōmat-, arōma "fragrant substance, spice," borrowed from Greek arōmat-, árōma, of obscure origin

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

aroma

noun

aro·​ma ə-ˈrō-mə 

: a noticeable and usually pleasant smell

the aroma of coffee