olfactory
UK: ɒlˈfækt(ə)ri | US: ɑːlˈfæktəri
adj. relating to the sense of smell
olfactory = ol<smell> + fact<make> + ory<relating to>
- ol<smell>: From Latin olere (to smell), seen in words like odor.
- fact<make>: From Latin facere (to make or do), a common root in words like factory or manufacture.
- ory<relating to>: A suffix forming adjectives, indicating a relationship (e.g., sensory, auditory).
Etymology Origin:
The word olfactory traces back to Latin olfactus (the act of smelling), combining olere (smell) and facere (to make). It reflects the idea of "making/perceiving smells." Over time, ory was added to form an adjective, aligning with other sensory terms like auditory or tactile. The logic mirrors how smell is "produced" (detected) by the nose.
The olfactory nerves transmit signals from the nose to the brain.
Dogs have a highly developed olfactory system.
The experiment studied olfactory responses to different scents.
Pollution can impair olfactory sensitivity.
Perfume designers rely on their olfactory skills to create fragrances.