Wafting

/ˈwɑːftɪŋ/ verb

Definition

Floating or drifting gently through the air, often carried by a breeze or soft current.

Etymology

From Dutch 'wachten' (to guard, escort) via a nautical route; sailors used 'waff' for guarding the wave, which evolved into the modern sense of carrying on air.

Kelly Says

Smell travels by wafting—scent molecules literally float on air currents—and your nose is so sensitive that a single odorant molecule can trigger a smell sensation, which is why a tiny waft of perfume fills a room.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.