FRAGRANT Synonyms: 42 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'fragrant' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of fragrant are aromatic , odorous , and redolent . While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors. // a fragrant rose

Q: When might 'aromatic' be a better fit than 'fragrant'?

The meanings of aromatic and fragrant largely overlap; however, aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors. // an aromatic blend of tobaccos

Q: When is it sensible to use 'odorous' instead of 'fragrant'?

The synonyms odorous and fragrant are sometimes interchangeable, but odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant. // odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

Q: When is 'redolent' a more appropriate choice than 'fragrant'?

The words redolent and fragrant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors. // the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

fragrant

adjective

ˈfrā-grənt

Definition of fragrant next

as in aromatic

having a pleasant smell the balsam fir is a favorite as a Christmas tree because it is so fragrant

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective fragrant contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of fragrant are aromatic, odorous, and redolent. While all these words mean "emitting and diffusing scent," fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

When might aromatic be a better fit than fragrant?

The meanings of aromatic and fragrant largely overlap; however, aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

When is it sensible to use odorous instead of fragrant?

The synonyms odorous and fragrant are sometimes interchangeable, but odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.

odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

When is redolent a more appropriate choice than fragrant?

The words redolent and fragrant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

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 fragrant How about a strongly fragrant rose planted close to a window, or our favorite outdoor chair or bench? —

Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 Feb. 2025 The most fragrant lavender oil comes from a hybrid of English lavender and another lavender species, both of which are native to Mediterranean countries. —

Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 30 Jan. 2025 Shrubs such as fragrant sumac and common lilac tend to sucker or send out new sprouts from the roots. —

Beth Botts, Chicago Tribune, 26 Jan. 2025 Choose a new scent to take on the New Year by picking up a fragrant candle from Apotheke for just $24. —

Averi Baudler, People.com, 22 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for fragrant