fragrance

noun

fra·​grance ˈfrā-grən(t)s 

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

Synonyms of fragrance

• scent
• aroma
• perfume
• fragrancy

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

Diapers may use synthetic musks to create fragrances as well as plastics that contain chemicals such as phthalates and volatile organic compounds, which studies have linked to developmental delays, reproductive harm, endocrine system disruption and cancer. —Kate Sequeira, Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2026

The spot even has a private entrance on Duke Street, allowing members to avoid the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street altogether, as well as a custom scent from the folks at British fragrance house Perfumer H. —Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 10 Apr. 2026

These lotions are vegan and cruelty-free, and they’re made without fragrances and parabens. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 9 Apr. 2026

Spring is officially here, with its blue skies, gentle sunshine, and, as per usual, a bounty of new fragrance launches to sift through. —Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 9 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1667, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

fragrance

noun

fra·​grance ˈfrā-grən(t)s 

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