redolent

adjective

ˈre-də-lənt How to pronounce redolent (audio)
Definition of redolentnext
as in fragrant
having a pleasant smell my grandmother's house always seemed to be redolent with the aroma of baking bread

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How does the adjective redolent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of redolent are aromatic, fragrant, and odorous. While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

When is it sensible to use aromatic instead of redolent?

In some situations, the words aromatic and redolent are roughly equivalent. However, aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

When can fragrant be used instead of redolent?

The words fragrant and redolent can be used in similar contexts, but fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

In what contexts can odorous take the place of redolent?

The words odorous and redolent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.

odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

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 redolent Optimization for cost and convenience has made the average tortilla more redolent of cardboard than corn, designed not for flavor but to encase delicious fillings. —Kristen V. Brown, The Atlantic, 23 Dec. 2024 These aromatic, and often limited-edition, hydrators pair two of the best beauty characteristics—redolent scents and advanced moisture. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 18 Dec. 2024 Korean cuisine is often associated with beef: bulgogi or kalbi or the do-it-yourself braziers that leave your hair and skin redolent of smoke. —Peggy Orenstein, AFAR Media, 6 Jan. 2025 Joni Mitchell, Joni Mitchell Archives — Vol. 3: The Asylum Years Weaving through 2024 with these albums as my guiding lights made for a year redolent of some larger chaos. —Rolling Stone, 28 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for redolent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for redolent
  1. fragrant
  2. aromatic
  3. scented
Adjective
  • These days, Istanbul is a popular tourist destination, known for its colorful Turkish carpets, bustling bazaars and fragrant spice markets.
    — Danuta Hamlin, FOXNews.com, 13 Apr. 2025
  • There were vendors offering dessert, beer, wine, spirits, caramel corn, root beer floats, olive oil and pecans from Krazy 4 Nutz of Yuba City, which were particularly fragrant along the aisle of vendors stationed near the event entrance.
    — Chris Biderman, Sacbee.com, 12 Apr. 2025
Definition of fragrant
Adjective
  • The tubular blooms attract hummingbirds and butterflies while the aromatic foliage remains evergreen through much of its range.
    — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 13 Apr. 2025
  • Murg Malai Kebab: chicken kebab with a creamy yogurt sauce flavored with aromatic spices.
    — Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Apr. 2025
Definition of aromatic
Adjective
  • Save scented candles or fragrant floral arrangements for your entry or your after-dinner lounge seating. 5.
    — Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Apr. 2025
  • Strong Odors Odors from products like perfumes, air fresheners, scented candles, paint, gasoline, and household cleaning products can trigger allergic asthma symptoms.
    — Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 7 Apr. 2025
Definition of scented

Browse Nearby Words

redolences
redolent
redone
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Cite this Entry

“Redolent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/redolent. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.

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