anosmia

[ an-oz-mee-uh, -os- ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. absence or loss of the sense of smell.

anosmia

/ -ˈɒs-; ˌænɒzˈmætɪk; ænˈɒzmɪə /

noun

1. pathol loss of the sense of smell, usually as the result of a lesion of the olfactory nerve, disease in another organ or part, or obstruction of the nasal passages

Derived Forms

• anosmatic, adjective

Other Words From

• an·os·mat·ic [an-, uh, z-, mat, -ik], an·osmic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of anosmia¹

1805–15; < New Latin < Greek an- an- ¹ + osm ( ḗ ) smell (akin to ózein to smell) + -ia -ia

Word History and Origins

Origin of anosmia¹

C19: from New Latin, from an- + Greek osmē smell, from ozein to smell

Example Sentences

Although less dependent on smell to process reality than other animals, humans still need it and will suffer from mental health disorders when that ability is impaired or eliminated through a condition known as anosmia.

From Salon

For congenital anosmia, researchers suspect a genetic link or developmental abnormalities.

From Salon

There are also efforts to build neuroprostheses that would help people with anosmia detect smell again.

From Scientific American

Even anosmia, the loss of taste and smell — considered hallmark symptoms of this disease, though that is changing — is a neurological disorder, a category of conditions affecting the brain and central nervous system.

From Salon

Kelly founded AbScent shortly after her diagnosis, when anosmia was not as well known.

From Los Angeles Times