nose test

noun4

1. •
   An inspection of the nasal passages or a trial of their function, as for breathing difficulties or olfactory ability.

   • The pollen blocker cream appeared to help; after using the cream, people did better on the nose test. — 2004
2. •
   An inspection of an object by smelling it, as for cleanliness of clothing or freshness of food.

   • Make the "nose test" sniffing for fumes, before starting engines. — 1975
3. •
   Synonym of sniff test.
4. •
   (figurative) An informal check of whether an idea or proposal is credible, ethical, etc., using one's common sense or sense of propriety.