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

When project costs didn’t pass the smell test, we demanded answers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 9, 2026

And there is the shoddy nature of the indictments themselves, which don’t pass the smell test.

From Slate • Oct. 14, 2025

Although Parma's group has received NIH funding for their smell test, for instance, smell tests are often not covered by insurance.

From Salon • Oct. 4, 2023

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