smell test

American  

[smel test] / ˈsmɛl ˌtɛst /

noun

1. the practice of determining the freshness of fish or other food with the nose rather than the eye.

2. an instinctive assessment of whether someone or something is ethical and genuine or deceptive and corrupt.

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idioms

1. pass the smell test, to be found ethical or genuine, typically by an instinctive sense or quick, informal assessment (usually used in the negative).

   Their next concern was would she pass the smell test? Although the age of the painting was scientifically verified, it didn’t pass the smell test with art historians.

Etymology

Origin of smell test

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

Several defense attorneys credited the state prosecutors for scrutinizing the charges more thoroughly and ultimately deciding that some of the cases did not pass the smell test.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

Even if he hadn’t, the argument doesn’t pass the smell test.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 28, 2025

Patel's critics argue that he does not pass the smell test.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2025

Bensinger: But if you’re an incredibly psychologically weak person who’s flogged into deciding to act on it, it may not cross legal lines, but does it pass the smell test?

From Slate • Feb. 24, 2024

He said the development "doesn't pass the smell test" and there were "so many elements that warrant closer examination".

From BBC • May 31, 2023