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Odorless Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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odorless

[ˈoʊdərləs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

describing substances

Odorless refers to a substance that does not emit any scent or smell. It is often used to describe gases, liquids, and materials that lack any detectable odor, making them neutral in terms of olfactory perception. This property is particularly important in contexts such as safety assessments of chemicals, where an odorless compound may pose a hidden danger due to its invisibility and lack of smell. Many everyday products, such as certain cleaning agents and medical gases, can be odorless, being designed to avoid any irritation or unpleasant fragrance.

Synonyms

fragrance-free, neutral, smellless.

Examples of usage

  • The gas is odorless and colorless.
  • Odorless cleaning products are preferred in hospitals.
  • This medication is odorless, making it easy to swallow.
  • Odorless paint helps in maintaining a pleasant environment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'odorless'

The word 'odorless' is derived from the combination of 'odor,' which comes from the Latin 'odor' meaning 'smell,' and the suffix '-less,' which indicates the absence of something. The term began to be used in the English language around the mid-19th century as the understanding of chemistry and the properties of substances expanded. As scientists and the general public became more aware of the roles that various scents play in safety and perception, the term 'odorless' became increasingly valuable in describing materials that present no olfactory clues. In modern usage, the term is prevalent in safety regulations, product descriptions, and discussions about environmental standards, reflecting the growing importance of odorless formulations in many sectors, from industrial applications to consumer goods.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,820, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.