Dictionary

besmell en · VERB

Etymology

From be- + smell.

Meanings

1. (emphatic, transitive) To smell out; sniff about, around, or all over; investigate or check by smelling; detect a smell or a scent.
   • I'll tell you News, Sirs, I carry a little Muist-box (which is the Word of GOD) in my Bosom, and when I meet with the ill Air of ill company, that's like to gar me Swarf, I besmell my self with the 'sweet lavour of it, and with the Name ... 1708, Michael Bruce, Good news in evil times for fainting believers:
   • Juan positioned himself by the side of the building, peeked through an open window, and found the feast a sight to behold, and a scent to besmell. 2012, George R.R. Washington, Alan Goldsher, A Game of Groans: A Sonnet of Slush and Soot:

Forms