n.
Function: noun
Date: 12th century
1 : the property of a thing that affects the olfactory organs : ODOR
2 a : the process, function, or power of smelling b : the sense concerned with the perception of odor
3 a : a very small amount : TRACE <add only a smell of garlic> b : a pervading or characteristic quality : AURA <the smell of affluence, of power ― Harry Hervey>
4 : an act or instance of smelling
synonyms 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>.