# smell of the lamp

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/smell-of-the-lamp
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To bear marks of great study and labor.

## Examples

- His essay clearly shows the smell of the lamp.
- The professor praised the student's research, noting that every page carried the distinct smell of the lamp.
- The intricate legal argument was so meticulously crafted that it clearly bore the smell of the lamp, reflecting years of exhaustive study.

## Origin

Suggesting work done throughout the night.

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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.