# in good odor

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/in-good-odor
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

liked, in someone's good books.

## Examples

- I am in good odor with my boss after finishing the project early.
- She is in good odor with the teacher because she always helps other students.
- Since he helped organize the charity event, he is currently in good odor with the local community leaders.
- If you want to stay in good odor with your neighbors, you should probably trim the tall hedges that block their view of the street.
- By consistently delivering exceptional results, the young manager remained in good odor with the board of directors despite the recent market downturn.

## Origin

The expression is a secularised variant of the medieval Latin *in odore sanctitatis*, which referred to the supposed fragrance of sanctity emitted by the bodies of the exceptionally pious upon their death. This perceived sweetness was contrasted with the scent of common decomposition, providing a sensory verification of the deceased's standing in the afterlife. The English phrase *in good odour* retains this sense of moral or social scent, suggesting a reputation that is pleasantly intact.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.