Have you ever considered the difference between “odoriferous” and “odiferous”? Surprisingly, both words have been in English since the late 15th century. While “odoriferous” is now more recognized by standard dictionaries, both forms are not very common.
Originally, both terms meant pleasant-smelling, but now they can refer to either a pleasant or unpleasant odor, according to the Oxford English Dictionary.
The OED explains that they originally described something fragrant but later evolved to describe something with a (pleasant or unpleasant) odor.
Interestingly, some American dictionaries suggest that the odor is usually unpleasant. For example, American Heritage defines “odoriferous” as having a strong or unpleasant odor.
A Google Ngram Viewer search shows that “odorous” is more commonly used than “odoriferous” or “odiferous,” with specific adjectives like “fragrant” and “smelly” being even more popular.
The OED traces “odiferous” as a shortened form of “odoriferous,” both originating from the Latin term odorifer (sweet-smelling, fragrant).
In the late 16th century, “odoriferous” took on a figurative sense meaning pleasing or agreeable. However, the modern usage of the term is often negative, describing something unpleasant or disgusting.
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