1.
fragrant; aromatic; savory (of roasted/toasted foods)
Having a pleasant aroma from roasting, toasting, or grilling. Describes the appealing smell of browned, toasted, or caramelized foods.
香ばしい匂いがキッチンから漂ってきた。
A savory aroma wafted from the kitchen.
胡麻を炒ると香ばしくなる。
Sesame seeds become fragrant when you toast them.
香ばしく焼いたパンにバターを塗る。
Spread butter on nicely toasted bread.
CONJUGATION:
- 香ばしい → 香ばしくない (negative)
- 香ばしい → 香ばしく (adverbial form)
- 香ばしい → 香ばしかった (past)
USAGE:
Describes the pleasant, appetizing smell of foods that have been toasted, roasted, or grilled. The aroma comes from the Maillard reaction (browning).
- 香ばしい匂い/香り (fragrant aroma)
- 香ばしく焼く (to toast/roast until fragrant)
COMMON FOODS DESCRIBED:
- 胡麻 (sesame seeds)
- 煎餅 (rice crackers)
- 焼き魚 (grilled fish)
- パン/トースト (bread/toast)
- 焙煎コーヒー (roasted coffee)
NOTE:
香ばしい specifically refers to the savory, roasted aroma—not sweet fragrances (use 甘い香り) or flowery scents (use 良い香り or 芳しい).