Meaning & Definition of word "Smelling"
to
Smelling
/ˈsmɛl.ɪŋ/
verb:
- 1. The action of perceiving or detecting a scent or odor through the sense of smell.
- Example: She was smelling the flowers in the garden.
- 2. To perceive or detect the scent of something.
- Example: I can smell something delicious cooking in the kitchen.
- 3. To have a particular odor or scent.
- Example: The cheese is smelling a bit off.
adjective:
- 1. Having a scent; typically a pleasant one.
- Example: The smelling herbs added flavor to the dish.
- 2. Characterized by an odor or scent.
- Example: The smelling roses filled the air with sweetness.
Etymology
Middle English smellen, from Old English smēlan.
Common Phrases and Expressions
smelling like roses:
To be in a good situation or doing well.
smelling a rat:
To suspect something is wrong or dishonest.
smelling salts:
A preparation used to revive someone from fainting.
Related Words
smell:
To perceive or detect a scent.
scent:
A distinctive smell, especially a pleasant one.
fragrance:
A sweet or pleasant odor.
Slang Meanings of smelling
Meaning: To be attractive or appealing.
Example Sentence: She's smelling good tonight!
Meaning: To be aware of a situation or to have a gut feeling about something.
Example Sentence: I'm smelling something fishy about this deal.