I. ˌa-rə-ˈma-tik, ˌer-ə- adjective
Date: 14th century
1. : of, relating to, or having aroma:
a. : fragrant
b. : having a strong smell
c. : having a distinctive quality
2. of an organic compound : characterized by increased chemical stability resulting from the delocalization of electrons in a ring system (as benzene) containing usually multiple conjugated double bonds — compare alicyclic , aliphatic
Synonyms: see odorous
• ar·o·mat·i·cal·ly -ti-k(ə-)lē adverb
• aro·ma·tic·i·ty ˌa-rə-mə-ˈti-sə-tē, ˌer-ə-, ə-ˌrō-mə- noun
II. noun
Date: 15th century
1. : an aromatic plant or plant part ; especially : an aromatic herb or spice
2. : an aromatic organic compound