perfume 1 of 2

noun

ˈpər-ˌfyüm How to pronounce perfume (audio)
Definition of perfumenext
as in scent
a sweet or pleasant smell the perfume of fresh flowers filled the room

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

perfume

2 of 2

verb

(ˌ)pər-ˈfyüm How to pronounce perfume (audio)
as in to scent
to fill or infuse with a pleasant odor or odor-releasing substance roses perfumed the wedding chapel

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun perfume differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of perfume are fragrance, redolence, and scent. While all these words mean "a sweet or pleasant odor," perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

When would fragrance be a good substitute for perfume?

Although the words fragrance and perfume have much in common, fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.

the fragrance of pine

When could redolence be used to replace perfume?

In some situations, the words redolence and perfume are roughly equivalent. However, redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.

the redolence of a forest after a rain

How are the words scent and perfume related?

Scent is very close to perfume but of wider application because more neutral in connotation.

scent-free soaps

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 perfume
Noun
By working with different, contradictory materials and using them to create single pieces, the artist states that the aspect of upcycling old perfume and cosmetic bottles, including their packaging, is something very exciting for her. —Sonya Rehman, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 From Jacquemus to Jellycats, perfumes to prebiotic soda, fruit is trending across all areas of culture. —Sophia Panych, Allure, 30 June 2025
Verb
Fragrant white tubular blooms add to this plant's charm, perfuming the garden in summer through fall. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 21 May 2025 Our goal is to teach individuals how to perfume themselves, to create their own rituals, and to discover scents that align with their essence. —Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for perfume
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perfume
  1. scent
  2. fragrance
  3. aroma
Noun
  • The smell will fade overtime as the blinds begin to dry, but diluting vinegar with water helps minimize the potency of the scent.
    — Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 19 July 2025
  • Consider matching the soap's color (and the scent) to the jar's jam flavor.
    — Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 July 2025
Definition of scent
Noun
  • Outside of clothing, there are also good deals on beauty, including this mini set of woody and fresh fragrances, which are ideal for throwing into your purse or makeup bag.
    — Izzy Baskette, People.com, 19 July 2025
  • In parallel, the house—which also has a strong presence in the Asian beauty market—is about to launch a fragrance collaboration with Lalique, further strengthening its links with Paris.
    — Kate Matthams, Forbes.com, 17 July 2025
Definition of fragrance
Noun
  • Bright, medium purple; rich aromas of black currant, black licorice, peppercorn, mocha and graphite.
    — Tom Hyland, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • Hand-selected by Distiller David Bock, this latest release was aged a minimum of ten years and boasts the rich aromas of leather, plums, and a hint of apple.
    — Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 14 July 2025
Definition of aroma

Browse Nearby Words

performs
perfume
perfumed
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Cite this Entry

“Perfume.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perfume. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on perfume

Nglish: Translation of perfume for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about perfume

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