smelling salts

noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. a preparation for smelling, essentially of ammonium carbonate with some agreeable scent, used as a stimulant and restorative.

smelling salts

plural noun

1. a pungent preparation containing crystals of ammonium carbonate that has a stimulant action when sniffed in cases of faintness, headache, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of smelling salts¹

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

That roused her quicker than even the smelliest smelling salts could have, and she chased the twins ’round the room while screaming, “Mama! Mama!”

Read more on Literature

Every bell pull that could be found was rung and rung and rung yet again, to wake the sleeping servants, call for smelling salts, find someone to run for a doctor, and so on.

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In the business of the worst moment, there may be unanimity, just as soon as the effects of the smelling salts and the large brandies kick in.

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Sometimes it’s Harris offering Scott smelling salts — a practice Dicker, who is naturally amped, skips.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Rugby's authorities have no immediate plans to follow American football's NFL in banning 'smelling salts' over concerns they may mask concussion symptoms.

Read more on BBC