English

Noun

nose test ‎(plural nose tests)

1. (idiomatic) An informal method for determining whether something is authentic, credible, or ethical, by using one's common sense or sense of propriety.
   • 1991, Josh Barbanel, "Access Is Money for City Hall Lobbyists," New York Times, 26 Mar. (retrieved 7 Feb. 2009):

     In many cases, said Henry J. Stern, the president of the Citizens Union, a civic group, and a former city Parks Commissioner, "you have to apply the nose test." "Does it smell?" he said, referring to such deals. "Is it based on a personal relationship? Does it run contrary to the city's interest?"

2. An inspection of an object using the sense of smell, as for freshness of food.
   • 1975, Bob Bender, "Safety Checklist While Boating," St. Petersburg Times, 30 Jun. (retrieved 7 Feb. 2009):

     Make the "nose test" sniffing for fumes, before starting engines.

3. (physiology) An inspection of the nasal passages or a trial of their function, as for breathing difficulties.
   • 2004, Helen Fields, "Rub your nose in it," U.S. News & World Report, 8 Nov. (retrieved 7 Feb. 2009):

     The pollen blocker cream appeared to help; after using the cream, people did better on the nose test.

Synonyms

• smell test

See also

• smell a rat
• sniff test

Anagrams

• testones