What does smokiness mean?
Smokiness names the quality of being smoky, particularly the presence or lingering impression of smoke. It can refer to an odor, a flavor, a visible haze, or the general character of something affected by smoke. The noun is especially useful when describing food, drink, air, or a place: one might notice slight smokiness in a meal, detect the smokiness of an old fireplace, or describe a wine as having subtle smokiness. Because it often focuses on an impression or quality rather than a dense cloud, it commonly appears with words such as “slight,” “faint,” or “subtle.” Smokiness is also distinct from smoke itself, which can refer to the visible substance, while smokiness more often suggests the smell, flavor, or atmosphere associated with it. In culinary contexts, it can be valued as a characteristic, as with smoked cheese or other deliberately smoked foods.
nounThe quality or condition of being smoky, especially the presence, smell, or flavor of smoke.
- The quality of being smoky, especially as perceived through a smell, flavor, or visible haze.
"There was a faint smokiness in the kitchen that suggested something had been left burning."
"A trace of smokiness lingered in the room long after the barbecue had ended."
"The cheese is delicious, but its slight smokiness may not appeal to every diner."
This plural is grammatically possible but uncommon. Smokiness is normally used as an uncountable noun.
"The tasting notes distinguish the wine's delicate smokinesses from more strongly smoked flavors."
Smokiness captures what smoke leaves behind: not just the cloud itself, but its lingering scent and flavor.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of smokiness
Smokiness is an English noun formed by adding the suffix “-ness” to “smoky,” which in turn derives from “smoke.” The suffix traditionally creates an abstract noun naming a quality or state. Related English words sharing the same root include “smoke,” “smokeless,” and “smokelessness.”
How smokiness is actually used
Smokiness is usually an uncountable noun. Plural forms are uncommon because it generally names a quality, smell, or condition rather than a countable object.