fragrance

noun

fra·​grance ˈfrā-grən(t)s How to pronounce fragrance (audio)
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.
They’re made of polyester or cellulose fibers coated with liquid softeners, lubricants, and fragrance that are transferred to clothing when activated by the heat of the dryer. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 16 Nov. 2025 Its intoxicating fragrance comes from its high levels of coumarin, a chemical compound that gives the bean its signature scent and flavor. JSTOR Daily, 15 Nov. 2025 When Gaynes and Christensen decided to create a fragrance brand (originally called ERH1012), Gaynes didn’t build out a full line. Adam Hurly, Robb Report, 15 Nov. 2025 Next up, Iconix will be seeking licensees for fishing equipment, kids’ apparel, fragrance and personal care products and pet accessories. Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 14 Nov. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fragrance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fragrance. Accessed 21 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

fragrance

noun
fra·​grance ˈfrā-grən(t)s How to pronounce fragrance (audio)
: a sweet, pleasant, and often flowery or fruity smell

More from Merriam-Webster on fragrance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!