Langimage
English

smell

|smell|

A2

/smɛl/

perceive odor

Etymology
Etymology Information

'smell' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'smellan,' where 'smellan' meant 'to perceive by the nose.'

Historical Evolution

'smellan' transformed into the Middle English word 'smellen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'smell.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to perceive by the nose,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the faculty or power of perceiving odors or scents by means of the organs in the nose.

Dogs have a keen sense of smell.

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Antonyms

Verb 1

to perceive or detect the odor or scent of something.

I can smell the flowers from here.

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Verb 2

to emit an odor or scent.

The kitchen smells of garlic.

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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35