Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The sense of smell, also known as olfaction, is the ability to detect and perceive odors through chemical stimuli in the environment. It is closely linked to our memories, emotions, and taste perception.
Related terms
Olfactory Bulb: A structure located at the front of the brain that receives information from olfactory receptor neurons in the nose and sends signals to other parts of the brain for processing.
A condition where a person completely loses their ability to smell due to damage or dysfunction in the olfactory system.
Phantosmia: A sensory hallucination characterized by perceiving smells that are not actually present. This can occur after a head injury or certain medical conditions.