smelling salts

NOUN

faintness relief

Synonyms

WEAK

Methedrine ammonium carbonate hartshorn methamphetamine hydrochloride sal volatile salts spirits

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The NFL came to his rescue, saying smelling salts — also known as ammonia inhalants, or AIs — were not banned.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 12, 2026

Ahead of the 2025 season, the league’s head, neck and spine committee recommended that teams end the longtime practice of providing smelling salts to players.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 12, 2026

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.

From BBC • Nov. 8, 2025

During half-time of the first British and Irish Lions' Test against Australia last month, Lions flanker Tadhg Beirne was shown inhaling smelling salts as the rest of the team huddled up.

From BBC • Aug. 6, 2025

He took a tentative sniff, as if it might be noxious smelling salts.

From "The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate" by Jacqueline Kelly