savour

/ ˈseɪvə /

noun

1. the quality in a substance that is perceived by the sense of taste or smell

2. a specific taste or smell

   the savour of lime

3. a slight but distinctive quality or trace

4. the power to excite interest

   the savour of wit has been lost

5. archaic,  reputation

verb

1. to possess the taste or smell (of)

2. to have a suggestion (of)

3. (tr) to give a taste to; season

4. (tr) to taste or smell, esp appreciatively

5. (tr) to relish or enjoy

Other Word Forms

• savourless adjective
• savorous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of savour¹

C13: from Old French savour, from Latin sapor taste, from sapere to taste

Example Sentences

Rafik Khezmadji, 37, says he comes to Costa because it's close to work, but he also enjoys being able to sit outside and savour his coffee.

From BBC

The sound of The Kaiser Chiefs' "I Predict A Riot" belted out and the old place rocked to its foundations as it savoured Premier League victory again.

From BBC

Others urge tea drinkers to be careful about how much they use, and to savour matcha in its purest form rather than as an ingredient in recipes.

From BBC

Wales fans were given a moment to savour with a first ever goal in a major tournament - but it wasn't enough to earn a first win at Euro 2025.

From BBC

With just five minutes to go, Harvey Elliott stood and savoured the acclaim.

From BBC