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

Two of France’s most iconic brands, Guerlain and Hennessy, have teamed up to release a new edition of the classic men’s fragrance Habit Rouge to mark the 60th anniversary of its inception. —Alfredo Mineo, Footwear News, 2 Apr. 2025

The four signature fragrances available at Ulta—Dark Rose, Midnight Orchard, Legendary, and L’Affaire—come packaged in sleek, fuss-free vessels. —Robyn Merrett, StyleCaster, 1 Apr. 2025

The fragrance is sweet yet refined, never cloying or childish. —Danielle James, Vogue, 1 Apr. 2025

Tester feedback: Features director Dianna Mazzone Singh says this fragrance evokes the feeling of waking up on a summery Sunday morning. —Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 23 Mar. 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