odor — a distinctive smell, especially an unpleasant one
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a distinctive smell, especially an unpleasant one
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈoʊdər/
Example Sentences
- My gym bag has developed a mysterious odor that could probably knock out a rhino.
- The chef claimed the cheese was 'aged to perfection,' but its odor suggested it had aged to extinction.
- The laboratory uses special filters to control chemical odors.
odor
NOUN[/ˈoʊdər/]
a distinctive smell, especially an unpleasant one
A strange odor spread through the kitchen, making everyone cover their noses.
The odor reached everyone's nose before they saw the food. (👃 Nose + 🌬️ Smell → Odor)
The old motor released an unpleasant odor beside a bed of flowers.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Latin odorare, meaning 'to smell' or 'to perceive by scent.' The term reflects the cultural sensitivity of ancient Romans to fragrances and olfactory experiences, with the noun form odor emerging to denote the quality or sensation of smell itself.
Breakdown
odor derives from the Latin root odorare (to smell), with the -ar infinitive ending stripped away to form the noun. The ultimate root relates to the Indo-European base for 'scent' or 'smell,' though the precise etymology beyond Latin is uncertain.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My gym bag has developed a mysterious odor that could probably knock out a rhino.”
“The chef claimed the cheese was 'aged to perfection,' but its odor suggested it had aged to extinction.”
“The laboratory uses special filters to control chemical odors.”
“She noticed a sweet floral odor coming from the garden.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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