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

Examples of fragrant in a Sentence

These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Recent Examples on the Web Once melted, add garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, stirring continuously, 45 seconds or until garlic is fragrant. Amber Love Bond, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024 The nose is extremely fragrant, with strong spice and botanicals aromas wafting around a fruity rye base. Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 20 Oct. 2024 But on a clear day after rain, the dooryards and the narrow streets are fragrant with summer lilacs; the overgrown grass by the river, where people of all backgrounds pause to rest, blows on the approach to a high, arcing bridge; and startling moments of bright, simple beauty emerge. Nathan Heller, Vogue, 17 Oct. 2024 Selection: Choose ripe pineapples that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch with a golden-yellow hue. Brittany Lubeck, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 26 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for fragrant 

Thesaurus Entries Near fragrant

Cite this Entry

“Fragrant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fragrant. Accessed 17 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on fragrant

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