What does savor mean?
Savor means to taste or smell something with pleasure, and it often suggests a deliberate, unhurried appreciation of the experience. People savor a meal, the scent of flowers, or a beautiful view, emphasizing enjoyment that comes from paying close attention. The word can also be used figuratively: to savor a victory is to relish or fully appreciate it, while to preserve the flavor of a place or period means to retain its distinctive character. In American English, savor is the standard spelling, while British and Canadian English commonly use savour. The expression savor the moment captures the word's characteristic emphasis on being present and extracting pleasure from what is happening.
To taste or smell something with pleasure, or to appreciate an experience fully.
"They savored the quiet evening and the food prepared over the open fire."
Often conveys slow, attentive enjoyment and is frequently used figuratively.
The distinctive taste or smell of something, or the pleasure or quality associated with it.
"The dish has a rich savor that complements the roasted vegetables."
Less common than flavor in American English; savour is more usual in British and Canadian English.
The plural is used for distinct tastes, smells, or distinctive qualities.
"The recipe combines several savory flavors without overwhelming the dish."
To savor something is to give your full attention to the pleasure it brings—a small but deliberate celebration of taste, scent, and experience.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does savor come from?
Savor entered English in the early 16th century from Old French savorer, meaning “to taste” or “to smell,” ultimately from Latin sapere, “to taste or have a flavor.” The related Latin noun sapor, “taste,” also underlies English sap and sapid. The spelling with -u- reflects the usual British form savour, while the American spelling savor developed independently and became established in American usage.
Related word forms
How savor is actually used
Savor is especially common in American English; British English more often uses savour, although savor is widely understood. It has a positive, appreciative tone and is often used figuratively for taking time to enjoy an experience.
Easily confused with savor
Flavor primarily refers to a taste or smell, while savor often emphasizes the pleasure of tasting, smelling, or appreciating something.
Savor is the usual American spelling of the British and Canadian form savour, though both are understood throughout the English-speaking world.