Definition of fragrancenext
as in scent
a sweet or pleasant smell the fragrance of lilac trees in full bloom

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun fragrance differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of fragrance are perfume, redolence, and scent. While all these words mean "a sweet or pleasant odor," fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.

the fragrance of pine

When can perfume be used instead of fragrance?

While the synonyms perfume and fragrance are close in meaning, perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

When might redolence be a better fit than fragrance?

The synonyms redolence and fragrance are sometimes interchangeable, but redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.

the redolence of a forest after a rain

How do scent and perfume relate to one another, in the sense of fragrance?

Scent is very close to perfume but of wider application because more neutral in connotation.

scent-free soaps

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 fragrance In addition to the beautiful colors, the blooms contain an essential oil compound, geraniol, which creates a pleasant fragrance for us, but not the pests. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 10 May 2026 Its leaves have a distinct licorice scent, adding fragrance to growing areas. Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 9 May 2026 Made in America, all formulas are greaseless and fragrance-free. ABC News, 9 May 2026 Also, avoid rubbing the scent onto your skin, as this degrades the fragrance. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for fragrance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fragrance
Noun
  • Frying is an art, perhaps plied nowhere with such efficiency and aplomb as at this lively lunch counter, where the very air seems to crackle and the scent of pork incites the blood.
    Ligaya Mishan, New York Times, 11 May 2026
  • Their strong scent and low growth habit make onions suitable companion plants for many vegetables, herbs, and flowers.
    Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 May 2026
Noun
  • Don’t miss Shinrin-Yoku, a crisp and delicate Japanese-style rice lager, or the ever-popular Sightglass IPA, built on a pilsner malt base with aromas of berry and key lime.
    Vivian Chung, Travel + Leisure, 14 May 2026
  • Don’t skip the almond extract—a small splash deepens the cherry flavor and gives the filling its bakery-style aroma.
    Claire Saffitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 12 May 2026
Noun
  • Fennel, cumin, coriander and black pepper perfume sistani, another round flatbread with barley mixed into the wheat flour for a nutty taste and pliant crumb.
    Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2026
  • It’s been two years since Bella Hadid launched Orebella, and this week, the model dropped a new range of body and hair perfume mists.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 8 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Fragrance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fragrance. Accessed 16 May. 2026.

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