fragrance

noun

fra·​grance ˈfrā-grən(t)s 

1

a

: a sweet or delicate odor (as of fresh flowers, pine trees, or perfume)

b

: something (such as a perfume) compounded to give off a sweet or pleasant odor

2

: the quality or state of having a sweet odor

Synonyms

• aroma
• attar
• otto
• balm
• bouquet
• fragrancy
• incense
• perfume
• redolence
• scent
• spice

Choose the Right Synonym for fragrance

fragrance, perfume, scent, redolence mean a sweet or pleasant odor.

fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.

the fragrance of pine

perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

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

scent-free soaps

redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.

the redolence of a forest after a rain

Examples of fragrance in a Sentence

a flower with a lovely fragrance

the fragrance of lilac trees in full bloom

Recent Examples on the Web

It’s formulated without fragrance or alcohols, which can be irritating to sensitive skin. —Aamina Inayat Khan, StyleCaster, 9 Jan. 2025

Plus, according to data from investment banking company Piper Sandler, teens spent 23% more on cosmetics, skincare and fragrance in 2023 than 2022. —Celia Shatzman, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025

The finishing mist is free of alcohol, oil and fragrances, per a press release obtained by PEOPLE. —Raven Brunner, People.com, 8 Jan. 2025

From the coveted world of fashion, Lisa ventured into dual-purpose, luxurious fragrances that multi-task as a skin-safe, replenishing bug-repellant – the BUZZ. —Lauren Carpenter, USA TODAY, 5 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1667, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

fragrance

noun

fra·​grance ˈfrā-grən(t)s 

: a sweet, pleasant, and often flowery or fruity smell