odorous

adjective

odor·​ous ˈō-də-rəs 

: having an odor: such as

a

: fragrant

b

: malodorous

odorously adverb

odorousness noun

Choose the Right Synonym for odorous

odorous, fragrant, redolent, aromatic mean emitting and diffusing scent.

odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.

odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

Examples of odorous in a Sentence

Odorous cheeses need to be tightly wrapped.

Recent Examples on the Web

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

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

odorous

adjective

odor·​ous ˈōd-ə-rəs 

: having or giving off an odor

Medical Definition

odorous

adjective

odor·​ous ˈōd-ə-rəs 

: having an odor: as

a

: having a sweet or pleasant odor

b

: having a bad odor