Word Finder
What's the word for the pleasant smell that comes after rain hits dry ground?
The word you're looking for
petrichor /ˈpetrɪkɔːr/
Petrichor is the pleasant smell that comes after rain falls on dry ground. It is the exact word for this fresh, earthy scent.
Other words that fit
Use this for the chemical cause of the earthy rain smell, not the smell itself.
This can describe a fresh smell after rain, but it is less exact than petrichor.
Use this for a general earthy smell, but it is broader and less specific.
Why this word
Petrichor is the best word for the smell you notice after rain falls on dry soil or dust. It is a precise noun, so it is better than general words like “fresh smell” or “earthy smell.” People often use it in writing and in careful speech. It is not the rain itself, but the scent left behind when rain meets dry ground.
In context
- I love the petrichor after the first summer rain.
- The petrichor filled the air outside.
- She paused to enjoy the petrichor.
Other concepts to find a word for
Frequently asked questions
- Is petrichor a common word in everyday English?
- It is understood by many speakers, but it is more common in writing than in casual speech.
- Does petrichor mean the rain smell itself?
- Yes, it means the pleasant smell you notice after rain hits dry ground.
- What causes petrichor?
- It comes from oils in soil and plant material, plus compounds released by bacteria.