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

Below, see some popular ways to utilize this fragrant favorite. — Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner, Martha Stewart, 27 June 2026

The fragrant blooms of abelia appear in the summer and are adored by bees and butterflies. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 25 June 2026

With fragrant spring blooms, shiny autumn berries, and handsome evergreen foliage, this shrub provides privacy and beauty all year round. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 24 June 2026

Finished with a sprinkle of fresh basil, the cakes feel light, fragrant and perfect for warm weather. — Linda Gassenheimer, Boston Herald, 24 June 2026

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