Synonyms of fragrance
1
a
: a sweet or delicate odor (as of fresh flowers, pine trees, or perfume)
b
: something (such as a perfume) compounded to give off a sweet or pleasant odor
2
: the quality or state of having a sweet odor
Choose the Right Synonym for fragrance

fragrance, perfume, scent, redolence mean a sweet or pleasant odor.

fragrance suggests the odors of flowers or other growing things.

the fragrance of pine

perfume may suggest a stronger or heavier odor.

the perfume of lilacs

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

scent-free soaps

redolence implies a mixture of fragrant or pungent odors.

the redolence of a forest after a rain

Examples of fragrance in a Sentence

a flower with a lovely fragrance the fragrance of lilac trees in full bloom
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Turns out, there's a reason some of us can happily wander through the fragrance department while those like me can’t make it past the first spritz. Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 11 July 2026 The fragrances are noticeable after immediate wear and reduce with time to gradually blend with the natural scent of your hair. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 10 July 2026 The brand uses gourmand fragrances, soothing plant butters, exfoliating tropical fruit acids and nourishing oils to keep your skin and hair looking healthy, hydrated and smelling delicious. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 9 July 2026 Entry-level products begin with fragrances priced around $100, and apparel starts between $300 and $500. Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 9 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for fragrance

Word History

First Known Use

1667, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of fragrance was in 1667

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Cite this Entry

“Fragrance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fragrance. Accessed 17 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

: a sweet, pleasant, and often flowery or fruity smell

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