Noun
/pərˈfjum/
"Perfume" refers to a fragrant liquid made from essential oils and aroma compounds, used to give a pleasant scent to the human body, objects, or living spaces. It is widely used in both oral and written contexts, although it may appear more frequently in written form, particularly in advertisements, literature, and product descriptions.
She sprayed perfume before leaving the house.
Translation: Ella se roció perfume antes de salir de casa.
The perfume he gifted her was her favorite scent.
Translation: El perfume que él le regaló era su aroma favorito.
Many young people are obsessed with the latest perfume trends.
Translation: Muchos jóvenes están obsesionados con las últimas tendencias en perfumes.
"Perfume" is often used in various idiomatic expressions, focusing primarily on the themes of beauty, fragrance, and allure. Here are some expressions and their uses:
"Smell like a rose" - To appear pleasant and appealing.
Translation: Parecer agradable y atractivo.
Example: After her makeover, she smelled like a rose, catching everyone's attention.
Translation: Después de su cambio de imagen, ella parecía agradable, atrayendo la atención de todos.
"To be in the perfume of success" - To experience the sweet taste of success.
Translation: Experimentar el dulce sabor del éxito.
Example: After closing the big deal, he felt he was truly in the perfume of success.
Translation: Después de cerrar el gran trato, sintió que realmente estaba experimentando el dulce sabor del éxito.
"Create a sweet perfume" - To make a situation or event more pleasant.
Translation: Hacer que una situación o evento sea más agradable.
Example: The party planner worked hard to create a sweet perfume for the wedding.
Translation: El organizador de la fiesta trabajó arduamente para hacer que la boda fuera más agradable.
The word "perfume" originates from the Latin "perfumare," which means "to smoke through." It is derived from "per-" meaning "through" and "fumus" meaning "smoke." The term evolved through Old French before entering the English language in the late 14th century.
Synonyms: scent, fragrance, aroma, cologne, bouquet
Antonyms: odor, stench, reek, foulness, smell
In summary, "perfume" is a noun that plays a significant role in the realms of beauty and personal care, both in its literal and idiomatic uses, representing not just pleasant scents but also concepts of success and creation of positive environments.