Smell is one of our most evocative senses, often tied closely to memories and experiences. From the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee to the sharp tang of citrus, describing smells can enhance our communication, particularly in writing.
This blog post explores 20 descriptive words that can help articulate various olfactory experiences. Whether you’re painting a scene in a story, describing a meal, or recalling a day at the beach, these terms will add depth and clarity to your descriptions.
Words to Describe Smell
1. Fragrant
Meaning: Having a pleasant scent.
Example: The room was fragrant with lilac.
2. Pungent
Meaning: A sharp, strong smell.
Example: The cheese had a pungent odor.
3. Stench
Meaning: An unpleasant, strong smell.
Example: The stench of rotting meat was overpowering.
4. Aromatic
Meaning: Sweet-scented; often used for spices.
Example: The kitchen was aromatic with herbs.
5. Musky
Meaning: A heavy, warm, slightly animalistic scent.
Example: His cologne was rich and musky.
6. Putrid
Meaning: Rotten, decaying smell.
Example: The putrid smell of garbage filled the alley.
7. Acrid
Meaning: Sharp, bitter smell that stings the nose.
Example: Smoke from the fire was acrid.
8. Foul
Meaning: Very unpleasant smell.
Example: The foul smell made her gag.
9. Fresh
Meaning: Clean and pure smell.
Example: The air after the rain smelled fresh.
10. Sweet
Meaning: Pleasingly sugary smell.
Example: The scent of roses was sweet.
11. Earthy
Meaning: A smell reminiscent of damp soil or rain.
Example: The forest smelled earthy and alive.
12. Fishy
Meaning: Smelling of fish, often used to describe something suspicious.
Example: There was a fishy odor coming from the cooler.
13. Floral
Meaning: Smelling of flowers.
Example: She wore a floral perfume.
14. Spicy
Meaning: Having the aroma of spices.
Example: The air was spicy with cinnamon.
15. Citrusy
Meaning: Smelling of citrus fruits like oranges or lemons.
Example: The cleaner left a citrusy smell.
16. Woody
Meaning: A smell that suggests forests or cut wood.
Example: The cabin had a woody, comforting scent.
17. Minty
Meaning: Having a cool, fresh smell of mint.
Example: His breath was minty fresh.
18. Smoky
Meaning: Smell resembling smoke.
Example: The barbeque was smoky and inviting.
19. Rancid
Meaning: Unpleasant smell of decomposing oils or fats.
Example: The rancid butter spoiled the dish.
20. Perfumed
Meaning: Artificially scented, often sweet and strong.
Example: The lotion was heavily perfumed.
