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 of fragrance

• scent
• aroma
• perfume
• fragrancy

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

Leaves emit a powerful lemony menthol fragrance and they should be used sparingly, as opposed to common oregano. —Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 26 Mar. 2026

There are moments when guests will get a whiff of a fragrance that pairs with the storyline. —Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 26 Mar. 2026

Those with dry and/or sensitive skin are better off opting for creams or lotions, and in particular, ones that don't have a strong fragrance. —Hannah Yasharoff, USA Today, 26 Mar. 2026

Compared with other luxury sectors, fragrance lacks robust cultural preservation. —Sudhir Gupta, Rolling Stone, 25 Mar. 2026

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