What does it mean if a smell is 'evocative of' an experience?

When a smell is described as 'evocative of' an experience, it signifies that the smell has the power to bring to mind specific memories or feelings related to the past. This often occurs because certain scents can be closely linked to emotional memories or significant events in our lives, triggering recollections of those experiences. The connection between smell and memory is particularly strong, as the olfactory sense is linked to the areas of the brain responsible for emotion and memory.

The other options do not accurately capture the meaning of 'evocative of.' For instance, describing a smell as triggering a suppression of memories does not align with the concept of evocation, which is inherently about recalling or bringing memories to the forefront. Similarly, drawing attention to new experiences or distorting the perception of past events moves away from the idea of recalling memories associated with a specific scent. Thus, the correct answer highlights the ability of smells to remind us of past experiences, reinforcing our connections to moments, places, or people we may have encountered.