fragrant

adjective

fra·​grant ˈfrā-grənt 

: having a sweet or pleasant smell

fragrantly adverb

Synonyms of fragrant

• aromatic
• scented

Choose the Right Synonym for fragrant

odorous, fragrant, redolent, aromatic mean emitting and diffusing scent.

odorous applies to whatever has a strong distinctive smell whether pleasant or unpleasant.

odorous cheeses should be tightly wrapped

fragrant applies to things (such as flowers or spices) with sweet or agreeable odors.

a fragrant rose

redolent applies usually to a place or thing impregnated with odors.

the kitchen was redolent of garlic and tomatoes

aromatic applies to things emitting pungent often fresh odors.

an aromatic blend of tobaccos

Examples of fragrant in a Sentence

The soup was fragrant with herbs and spices.

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

Recent Examples on the Web

August brings a flush of fragrant, nectar-rich blooms that draw hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees to the garden. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 9 Nov. 2025

Flowers bloom all over the city, from fragrant jasmine to hot pink petals bursting from Judas trees. —Katie Nadworny, Travel + Leisure, 8 Nov. 2025

The expansive menu highlights the flavors of Hyderabad, an Indian city famous for its fragrant biryanis. —Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 7 Nov. 2025

Known for its fragrant purple blooms, lavender is a popular perennial herb that is beloved for its calming scent and beauty. —Sheryl Geerts, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin fragrant-, fragrans, from present participle of fragrare to be fragrant

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for fragrant

• flagrant
• vagrant

Kids Definition

fragrant

adjective

fra·​grant ˈfrā-grənt 

: having a sweet or agreeable smell

fragrantly adverb