Reading Theme:
Smell: Definition, Usage & Examples Explained (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：detect by scent (smell)
smell
/smel/
v.
To use your nose to notice or become aware of a smell.
detect by scent
➕
/dɪˈtekt baɪ sent/
v.
To perceive an odor through the nose.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old English 'smeallan', akin to German 'schmecken' (to taste).
💡 Mnemonic
A 'small' 'tell' from your nose. Your nose can tell you something is small but powerful—it's the sense of smell.
📖 Example
As she walked into the bakery, she could smell the fresh bread from the oven.
As she walked into the bakery, she could detect the scent of fresh bread from the oven.
🔗 Collocations
smell something – to perceive a particular odor
smell good/bad – to perceive a pleasant or unpleasant odor
can smell – to have the ability to perceive odors
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
ignore (v.) – To deliberately pay no attention to something, such as an odor.
📖 Cultural Story
The English word 'smell' lacks a glamorous classical origin but is central to daily life, from food appreciation to danger detection. In modern culture, phrases like 'smell the roses' symbolize taking time to enjoy life's simple pleasures.
Meaning 2：have an odor (smell)
smell
/smel/
v.
To have a particular odor, either good or bad.
have an odor
➕
/hæv ən ˈoʊdər/
v.
To emit or possess a particular scent or odor.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
This new brand of markers smells like strawberries.
This new brand of markers has an odor reminiscent of strawberries.
🔗 Collocations
smell like – to have an odor similar to something else
smell of – to have the odor characteristic of something
start to smell – to begin to emit an odor
🔄 Synonyms
reek (v.) – To smell strongly and unpleasantly.
fragrant (adj.) – Having a pleasant, sweet smell.
malodorous (adj.) – Having an unpleasant or offensive smell.
🚫 Antonyms
odorless (adj.) – Having no smell or scent.
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