olfactif

Olfactif is an adjective relating to the sense of smell. In English usage the corresponding term is olfactory; olfactif is chiefly found in French and in bilingual or specialized texts describing smell-related phenomena.

Etymology: The word derives from Latin olfactus “the sense of smell,” from the verb olfacere “to smell.”

Biology: Olfactory perception begins in the nasal cavity with olfactory receptor neurons in the olfactory epithelium. These neurons express odorant receptors, a large family of G protein-coupled receptors, that bind volatile molecules. Signal transduction leads to activation of the olfactory bulb, from which information projects to higher brain regions such as the piriform cortex, orbitofrontal cortex, and limbic structures involved in emotion and memory.

Perception: Humans can detect and discriminate a vast array of odorants through combinatorial coding of receptor activation. Olfactory sensitivity varies among individuals and can decline with age or disease. Adaptation to persistent odors reduces perceived intensity.

Applications: In perfumery and fragrance science, olfactif or olfactory terminology describes scent notes, classes (floral, woody, citrus, etc.), and overall character. Objective measures include olfactometry and odor threshold testing, while sensory panels provide qualitative assessment.

See also: Olfaction; Olfactory system; Anosmia; Perfumery