Sensory Physiology

2. Types of stimuli

2.7. Common odor descriptions

Odors are frequesntly described in terms like:

  • Fruity
  • Greasy
  • Floral
  • Earthy, musty, mushroom, yeasty
  • Woody, forest, fir
  • Grassy, green
  • Herbal
  • Spicy
  • Burnt, roasted, smokey
  • Savoury
  • Rancid
  • Nutty
  • e.t.c.
You can check out different aroma wheels e.g. used to describe wines, beers, cheeses, and their off-flavours etc. here.