smelled

word · lemma: smell

/ˈsmɛɫd/
smeld
/smˈɛld/
smeld

Definition

Past form of 'smell'. It can mean that something had a particular odor, or that someone used their nose to notice a smell.

Usage & Nuances

Often used in two patterns: 'something smelled + adjective/noun' ('The soup smelled good') and 'someone smelled + noun' ('She smelled the flowers'). In American English, 'smelled' is standard; 'smelt' is also used, especially in British English. The word can describe pleasant or unpleasant odors depending on context.

Example Sentences

Her jacket smelled like perfume.

natural

The soup smelled good.

basic

I smelled smoke in the kitchen.

basic

The shirt smelled bad after the rain.

basic

As soon as I walked in, I smelled fresh coffee.

natural

Something smelled off, so I didn't eat it.

natural