Meaning & Definition of word "Smell"

Smell

/smɛl/

noun:

  • 1. The ability to perceive odors or scents.
    • Example: Dogs have a keen sense of smell that helps them track scents.
  • 2. An odor or scent.
    • Example: I love the smell of fresh coffee in the morning.
  • 3. A specific scent or fragrance.
    • Example: The smell of lavender is often used to promote relaxation.

verb:

  • 1. To perceive or detect the odor or scent of something through the sense of smell.
    • Example: She could smell the freshly baked cookies from the kitchen.
  • 2. To have a particular scent or odor.
    • Example: The flowers smell wonderful in the springtime.
  • 3. To perceive or detect by the sense of smell.
    • Example: He smelled the smoke before he saw the fire.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old English smēlan, of Germanic origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

smell a rat:

to suspect that something is wrong or that someone is being dishonest.

the smell test:

a method to check if something is acceptable or appropriate.

smell the roses:

to take time to appreciate what is around you.

Related Words

odor:

A distinctive smell, usually used in a negative context.

fragrance:

A pleasant smell, often used in the context of perfumes.

aroma:

A strong and pleasant smell, especially of food or drink.

Slang Meanings of smell

Meaning: To have an unpleasant or negative connotation.

Example Sentence: That deal smells fishy.

Meaning: To be suspicious of someone or something.

Example Sentence: He smells a setup in this situation.