Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective fragrant contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of fragrant are aromatic, odorous, and redolent. While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

When might aromatic be a better fit than fragrant?

The meanings of aromatic and fragrant largely overlap; however, aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

When is it sensible to use odorous instead of fragrant?

The synonyms odorous and fragrant are sometimes interchangeable, but odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.

odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

When is redolent a more appropriate choice than fragrant?

The words redolent and fragrant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of fragrant With a bushy crown of narrow, glossy green leaves and fragrant white flowers, the species is cultivated and distributed beyond its native range as an ornamental shade tree. Nina Foster, JSTOR Daily, 30 May 2025 Across the way, Truman sprawled out on a fragrant bed of fresh wood shavings. Tom Vanden Brook, USA Today, 27 May 2025 This fragrant spice is native to India and Sri Lanka. Kelly Brant, Arkansas Online, 27 May 2025 Dense clusters of fragrant white, pink, rose, purple, or bicolored flowers appear in the spring on tall stems. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 23 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for fragrant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fragrant
Adjective
  • Hercule Studio also carries other accessories like comfort pads, carrying straps, and aromatic mat sanitizers.
    Bianca Salonga, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025
  • Plumes of aromatic smoke float over the pool bowl, which is still getting some action.
    Deborah Vankin, Los Angeles Times, 2 June 2025
Adjective
  • Here is what the judges had to say about it: An intense and inviting scented with menthol, citrus blossom, and herbal tea greets the senses, leading to a structured and rounded palate.
    Hudson Lindenberger, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025
  • Powered by a blend of nourishing ingredients—coconut oil for deep moisture, silk protein for a smooth finish, and neem oil to to increase anti frizz results—this leaves curls soft, bouncy, and delicately scented.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 30 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Fragrant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fragrant. Accessed 7 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on fragrant

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