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.

Earlier this season, the San Francisco Chronicle reported that 49ers players created a system to make sure everyone has immediate access to smelling salts during games.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 12, 2026

Football leans on tradition, providing convenient cover for the NFL’s lenient stance on smelling salts, ammonia crystals that players believe enhance performance when inhaled.

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

There are no explicit rules about the use of smelling salts by players before they undergo the assessment.

From BBC • Aug. 6, 2025

She passed some smelling salts under the old lady’s nose, making her flinch and moan, but she didn’t wake up.

From "The Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage" by Philip Pullman